By Paul Effiong, Abuja
House of Representatives Speaker, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas has vowed the 10th House’s readiness to block all loopholes enabling corrupt practices by reviewing existing anti-corruption laws in the country.
The Speaker disclosed that the House was already contemplating several amendments in order to strengthen the enforcement mechanisms.
Abbas, who made the promise yesterday at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja, to mark the international anti-corruption day which he said provided stakeholders with opportunity to access performances as well as make amend when necessary.
He urged critical stakeholders to brace up and strengthen all mechanism against corruption in the country.
According to the Speaker, the Green Chamber is working tirelessly to amend the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission, ICPC, Act to ensure that it carries out its constitutional mandate effectively and to prosecute corruption public and private officials.
“The current House of Representatives has prioritised anti-corruption war in its legislative agenda, reflecting our unwavering commitment to addressing this issue comprehensively.
“We are reviewing existing anti-corruption laws to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and close any legal loopholes enabling corrupt practices.
“For example, the House is working to amend the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission Act to enhance its capacity to effectively investigate and prosecute corruption cases”.
Meanwhile, the speaker informed that the House under his leadership was currently doing everything legally possible to advance the Whistleblower Protection Bill in order to encourage individuals with strong minds to expose all corrupt practices without fear of reprisal.
In his remarks at the occasion, the Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Anti-Corruption, Hon. Kayode Akiolu stated that his Committee is committed to ensuring that the mandate to combat corruption in all its forms within the country is carry out.
According to him, the committed is fully committed to fostering closer integration and synergy with other critical stakeholders which include the youth, civil society, organised private sector as well as those from the international community.
At the occasion some invited dignitaries and anti-corruption experts spoke on challenges and issues involve in tackling corruption in Nigeria.
