The government has taken a bold step in the fight against corruption by introducing the Anti-Corruption and Public Accountability Bill to the National Assembly. This proposed legislation aims to tighten financial oversight, empower regulatory bodies, and involve the public in ensuring transparency and accountability. Officials say it represents a renewed effort to curb the widespread mismanagement of public funds and restore trust in governance.

During a press briefing, the Minister of Justice, Abubakar Danjuma, emphasized the administration’s commitment to eliminating corruption at all levels. He described the bill as a necessary step to ensure public resources are used responsibly and warned that those who betray the people’s trust will face severe consequences. The proposed law introduces stricter penalties for corrupt officials, enhances whistleblower protections, and mandates asset declarations for public servants.

One of the most significant aspects of the bill is the introduction of harsher penalties for individuals found guilty of embezzlement or abuse of power. Public officials convicted of corruption could face a minimum of 15 years in prison, along with the forfeiture of illegally acquired assets. Supporters believe these tougher consequences will serve as a strong deterrent against financial crimes in government institutions.

To ensure corruption cases are handled efficiently, the bill also proposes the establishment of an independent anti-corruption tribunal. This special court system would focus solely on corruption-related cases, addressing the delays that often plague conventional judicial proceedings. Many believe that a dedicated tribunal could help deliver timely justice, reducing the tendency for high-profile cases to drag on for years without resolution.

The bill further strengthens protections for whistleblowers, encouraging more individuals to come forward with information about corrupt activities. Under the proposed legislation, whistleblowers will receive legal protection and financial rewards amounting to up to five percent of recovered funds. Proponents argue that this will incentivize transparency and expose corruption at various levels of government and the private sector.

Another key provision is the mandatory declaration of assets by all public officials, including lawmakers and ministers. Officials will be required to provide annual statements of their financial holdings, with strict penalties for false or misleading declarations. Transparency advocates see this measure as an important tool in preventing illicit wealth accumulation by government officials and ensuring accountability in public office.

The bill also seeks to bar individuals and businesses convicted of corruption from securing government contracts for at least ten years. By doing so, the government aims to discourage fraudulent practices in procurement processes and prevent known offenders from continuing to benefit from public resources. Some stakeholders believe this provision will help clean up public contracting, making it more transparent and competitive.

While the bill has been met with optimism in some quarters, it has also sparked intense debate among politicians, civil society groups, and business leaders. Supporters view it as a necessary step toward curbing corruption, while skeptics remain unconvinced about its effectiveness, citing past failures in law enforcement. Activists stress that the bill’s success will depend on its implementation, not just the strength of its provisions.

The National Civil Society Forum has cautiously welcomed the proposal, emphasizing that enforcement will be the true test. A spokesperson, Dr. Stella Onuoha, noted that past anti-corruption initiatives have failed due to political interference and selective prosecution. She warned that without genuine commitment from the authorities, the bill could become another policy that looks good on paper but achieves little in practice.

Opposition lawmakers have voiced concerns that the bill could be used as a political weapon rather than a genuine reform tool. Some argue that previous anti-corruption efforts have disproportionately targeted government critics while sparing those in power. Senator Tunde Bako accused the administration of selective enforcement, warning that without impartiality, the bill could deepen political tensions rather than address systemic corruption.

Public reaction has been mixed, with many citizens expressing skepticism over whether the government will follow through on its promises. In the capital, protesters gathered outside the National Assembly, demanding genuine reforms rather than what they see as another empty gesture. Online, the hashtag #EndTheLooting has gained traction, with thousands calling for greater transparency and stronger enforcement mechanisms.

Despite its ambitious goals, the bill faces significant challenges. Experts caution that political will remains the biggest obstacle, as previous administrations have passed similar laws with little enforcement. Judicial independence is another concern, with critics questioning whether the proposed tribunal will operate free from external pressure. Deeply entrenched corruption within government institutions may also hinder the bill’s effectiveness, as those responsible for enforcing it may themselves be complicit in corrupt practices.

The bill is now set for debate in the National Assembly, where lawmakers will scrutinize its provisions before making a final decision. If passed, it will require presidential approval before becoming law. As the country continues to struggle with the consequences of corruption, many are watching closely to see whether this legislation will bring real change or become yet another failed attempt at reform.