![BREAKING: Nigerian Lawmakers Challenge Colleague to Provide Evidence of Bribes to Present Bills [VIDEO]](https://nationscuriosity.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/347422166_648750349973515_4810971719873857895_n.jpg)
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian political landscape, a federal lawmaker has thrown down the gauntlet, alleging a deep-seated culture of bribery within the National Assembly. This explosive claim, made in a viral video, has ignited a firestorm, prompting a swift and forceful response from his colleagues who are now demanding he provide concrete evidence or face the consequences. This unfolding drama not only exposes the fragility of public trust in Nigeria’s legislative arm but also raises critical questions about the integrity of the lawmaking process itself.
The lawmaker in question, Ibrahim Usman Auyo, representing Hadejia/Auyo/Kafin Hausa Federal Constituency of Jigawa State, made the stunning revelation while addressing his constituents in Hausa. Reacting to criticism about his perceived inactivity in sponsoring bills and motions, Auyo alleged that presenting a legislative proposal on the floor of the House of Representatives is a financially prohibitive affair. He claimed that a lawmaker must pay anywhere from ₦1 million to ₦3 million as a “fee” to get a motion, bill, or petition to be read. He further stated that after this initial payment, an additional process of lobbying the other 360 members of the House is required to ensure the bill is considered.
This is not the first time such allegations have been made, but the directness of a serving lawmaker’s claim has given the accusation unprecedented weight. Previous reports and investigations have pointed to a similar pattern of corruption, particularly regarding budget approvals and oversight functions. However, Auyo’s testimony, seemingly from the inside, has added a new layer of urgency and credibility to the public’s long-held suspicions.
The House of Representatives was quick to push back. The Deputy House spokesperson, Phillip Agbese, described the allegations as a “reckless misrepresentation” and a complete fabrication. He stressed that the legislative process is governed by the constitution and the House’s standing orders, which are designed to ensure transparency and equal access for all members, regardless of their financial status. Agbese suggested that Auyo’s comments were born of ignorance of the established parliamentary procedures, not from any actual practice of bribery.
The House is not taking the matter lightly. Auyo has been challenged to provide proof to back up his claims. When the House reconvenes, he is expected to appear before a committee to substantiate his allegations. Failure to do so, according to House officials, could lead to his case being referred to the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges for “appropriate consideration.” The gravity of this threat underscores the seriousness with which the House views the allegations, which they say have the potential to severely undermine public confidence in the National Assembly.
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This incident reignites a long-standing debate about the transparency of Nigeria’s legislative arm. For many Nigerians, Auyo’s revelations merely confirm what they have suspected for years: that the legislative process is not always about serving the public but is instead a vehicle for personal gain. This skepticism is fueled by persistent reports of “budget padding” and the extravagant salaries and allowances of lawmakers. This current saga, therefore, is more than just a he-said, he-said argument; it’s a crucial test of the National Assembly’s commitment to accountability and integrity.
The coming weeks will be pivotal. All eyes will be on Auyo to see if he can provide the evidence to support his shocking claims. His ability to do so could trigger a much-needed investigation into the inner workings of Nigeria’s legislature, potentially leading to significant reforms. Conversely, if he cannot, he risks facing sanctions that could end his political career and further entrench the public’s cynicism. The outcome of this high-stakes showdown will undoubtedly shape the future of Nigerian governance.
This video is relevant because it discusses the allegations made by the Nigerian lawmaker and features a public affairs analyst weighing in on the implications of the controversy.