House of Reps Push for 7-year jail term, heavy fines for workplace bribery

The House of Representatives is proposing strict penalties, including a seven-year jail term and a N5 million fine, for anyone found guilty of bribery, either offering or receiving it, in workplaces across Nigeria.

The proposed legislation, titled “A Bill for an Act to Provide Effective Deterrence and Consequences for Bribery in Workplaces,” is sponsored by Paul Nnamchi (Enugu East/Isi-Uzo Federal Constituency) and three other lawmakers. The bill targets bribery in both public and private sectors and is scheduled for debate when the House resumes on June 17, 2025.

The bill prescribes that anyone who offers bribes—whether in cash, gifts, favours, or other benefits—to influence official actions will face a minimum of seven years in prison or a fine of N5 million, or three times the value of the bribe, whichever is greater.

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Stricter punishment is proposed for those who solicit or accept bribes, including a 10-year jail term along with the same financial penalties.

Public officials convicted of bribery would be dismissed from service and barred from holding any public office for 15 years. For corporate entities, the bill recommends a minimum fine of N100 million. Directors or officers involved would be prosecuted and could face at least 10 years in prison if convicted.

Additionally, guilty companies risk losing their licenses and being banned from public procurement for 10 years.