Part of the amendment, when approved would require a convicted looter of public fund to undergo mandatory counselling to tackle mental attitudes that predispose some public officials to obscene accumulation of illicit wealth, hoping that such measure may help to curb corruption at its root.
The bill which will aim to revise the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000, has passed its second reading in the House of Representatives.
Sponsored by Hon. Akiolu Moshood Kayode of Lagos Island, the proposed amendment focuses on introducing mandatory counselling and training for those convicted of corruption-related offences.
During the debate, Kayode explained that the bill seeks to update Section 67 of the law by adding new provisions.
PLEASE READ: Sanusi Speaks on Sealing of Kano Palace by Security Operatives
These would require judges and magistrates, in addition to sentencing offenders to prison or fines, to mandate a period of anti-corruption counselling and training.
The bill aims to address the link between mental attitudes and the accumulation of illicit wealth, proposing that such measures will help curb corruption at its root.
In another matter, the House also agreed to probe the activities of Nigeria Customs Service officers after allegations surfaced involving smuggling.
This came after a motion was raised by Rep. Oluwaseun Whingan, who cited an incident in Badagry, Lagos, where a journalist was assaulted while filming in a suspected smuggling area.
Smugglers beat a Journalist to stupor in Badagry, Lagos, State
The investigation will focus on the legal framework of the Nigerian Customs Service and its officers’ conduct.
The motion has been referred to the Committee on Customs and Excise.
