The House of Representatives is considering a bill that seeks to impose a minimum of seven years’ imprisonment or a N5 million fine on individuals found guilty of giving or receiving bribes in workplaces across Nigeria.
Sponsored by Hon. Paul Nnamchi (Enugu East/Isi-Uzo Federal Constituency) and three other lawmakers, the bill targets bribery in both public and private sectors. Titled ‘A Bill for an Act to Provide Effective Deterrence and Consequences for Bribery in Workplaces’, the proposal is slated for further debate when the House reconvenes on June 17.
According to a copy obtained by NEWS REVIEW, the bill defines bribery 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.”
If passed, the law will prescribe at least a N5 million fine or three times the value of the bribe whichever is higher and/or seven years’ imprisonment for anyone who offers or gives a bribe. Harsher penalties are proposed for those who solicit or receive bribes, including a 10-year jail term and similar financial sanctions.
For public officials, the bill recommends dismissal from service and a 15-year ban from holding any public office upon conviction. Corporate bodies found guilty of workplace bribery will face a fine not less than N100 million, while responsible directors or officers may be jailed for a minimum of 10 years.
Convicted companies may also lose operating licences and be banned from public procurement for 10 years.
The bill includes whistleblower protections, requiring all organisations to establish anti-bribery policies and anonymous reporting systems. Retaliation against whistleblowers would attract a N10 million fine and five years’ imprisonment.
Employers who fail to report bribery incidents within their organisations face a minimum penalty of N20 million and/or five years in jail.
To ensure enforcement, the legislation proposes a Workplace Anti-Bribery Unit under the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate and prosecute offenders. Assets linked to bribery will be seized and redirected into anti-corruption and national development programs.
The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation is expected to collaborate with the EFCC in developing regulations for the law’s effective implementation.
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