The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The suit challenges their alleged failure to investigate claims that lawmakers pay between ₦1 million and ₦3 million to sponsor or present bills, motions, and petitions at the National Assembly.
SERAP is pursuing the case on behalf of all members of the National Assembly.
The suit follows allegations by APC House member Ibrahim Auyo of Jigawa, who went public in a viral video in Hausa, claiming that lawmakers routinely pay bribes to sponsor bills and motions.
In its suit (FHC/L/CS/2214/2025), SERAP is seeking a court order of mandamus directing Akpabio and Abbas to refer the allegations to the appropriate anti-corruption agencies for investigation and prosecution.
The organisation is also asking the court to compel the duo to take measures to protect Auyo, the whistleblower.
SERAP described the bribery allegations as a serious violation of public trust and lawmakers’ constitutional oath.
According to the organisation, the claims, if true, undermine Nigerians’ democratic rights and make a mockery of legislative powers under Section 4 of the Constitution.
The lawsuit, filed by SERAP lawyers Kolawole Oluwadare, Kehinde Oyewumi, and Andrew Nwankwo, emphasises that the allegations reveal a troubling abuse of entrusted power, denying citizens their constitutional and democratic rights.
SERAP further stated that ensuring a thorough investigation would strengthen public trust in democratic institutions and reinforce the rule of law.
“Auyo is a whistleblower protected under Article 33 of the UN Convention against Corruption, to which Nigeria is a signatory.”
“He has raised public interest concerns regarding the alleged ₦3 million Bribe-for-Bills at the National Assembly,” SERAP said.
“Addressing these persistent allegations of corruption and the culture of impunity in the legislature is crucial for the rule of law and public accountability.”
No hearing date for the suit has been set.
