The House of Representatives has initiated an investigation into alleged smuggling activities by personnel of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
The decision came during a plenary session on Wednesday, following a motion of urgent public importance raised by Hon. Oluwaseun Whingan, representing the Badagry Federal Constituency, Lagos State.
Whingan highlighted an incident earlier this month where a journalist in Badagry was reportedly assaulted while attempting to film activities in a suspected “smuggling zone.” He criticized the conduct of Customs officers and called for an evaluation of the NCS’s legal framework and operational activities.
The motion has been referred to the House Committee on Customs and Excise for further scrutiny.
Bill Advocating Mandatory Counselling for Corruption Offenders Advances
Meanwhile, the House also deliberated on a bill to amend the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.
Sponsored by Hon. Akiolu Moshood Kayode, representing Lagos Island, the proposed amendment seeks to introduce mandatory counselling and training for individuals convicted of corruption-related offences.
Kayode explained that the bill expands Section 67 of the Principal Act to require magistrates and judges to impose rehabilitative measures alongside imprisonment or fines. The aim is to address the psychological underpinnings of corruption by promoting reform and behavioral change.
Both initiatives underscore the House’s commitment to improving governance and accountability across key institutions in Nigeria.