The House of Representatives is deliberating on a new bill aimed at tackling bribery in both public and private workplaces across Nigeria.
The bill proposes a seven-year jail term or a minimum fine of N5 million for individuals found guilty of giving or receiving bribes in a professional setting.
Sponsored by Paul Nnamchi, who represents the Enugu East/Isi-Uzo Federal Constituency, alongside three co-sponsors, the legislation is officially titled ‘A Bill for an Act to Provide Effective Deterrence and Consequences for Bribery in Workplaces’. It is expected to be debated further when the House reconvenes on June 17.
According to a copy of the bill seen by Chronicle NG, bribery is defined as “the offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting of anything of value as an inducement or reward to influence the actions of an employee, officer, or agent in the workplace.”
The proposed law states that anyone who offers a bribe “in cash, gifts, favours, or other benefits” to influence an official act could face, upon conviction, a fine of not less than N5 million or three times the value of the bribe—whichever is greater—and/or at least seven years in prison.
For those who solicit or receive bribes, the bill recommends even harsher consequences: a 10-year jail term and equivalent financial penalties.
Public officials convicted under the proposed law would not only be dismissed from service but also face a 15-year prohibition from holding any elective or appointive office.
The bill also outlines serious consequences for corporate organisations involved in bribery. Companies found guilty would face a fine of not less than N100 million, and their directors or responsible officers could face a minimum of 10 years in prison. In addition, convicted companies risk losing their operating licences and being barred from public procurement for a decade.
To further enhance accountability, the legislation includes protections for whistleblowers. It mandates all organisations to implement anti-bribery policies and create anonymous reporting channels. Employers or individuals who retaliate against whistleblowers could be fined a minimum of N10 million and imprisoned for at least five years.
Furthermore, employers are required to report any bribery within their organisations. Failure to do so could result in a fine of at least N20 million and/or five years’ imprisonment.
To ensure enforcement, the bill proposes the establishment of a Workplace Anti-Bribery Unit within the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). This unit would be responsible for investigating workplace bribery, prosecuting offenders, and monitoring compliance.
In addition, assets and funds traced to bribery activities would be forfeited to the Federal Government and channelled into anti-corruption and economic development initiatives.
The bill also outlines a collaborative framework between the EFCC and the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation to issue guidelines and regulations for effective implementation.
