The House of Representatives has dismissed allegations that some lawmakers are demanding bribes from vice-chancellors of federal universities in exchange for budget approvals.
The lawmakers described the claims as baseless and sensational.
In a statement signed by the House spokesman, Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr, the House condemned a report by PREMIUM TIMES, which alleged that some National Assembly members were engaging in extortion during the 2025 budget defence process.
The House described the report as an attempt to undermine its integrity and erode public trust.
“The 10th House of Representatives is firmly committed to transparency, accountability, and the highest ethical standards in all its legislative activities. The budget process is a constitutionally guided and transparent exercise, ensuring rigorous scrutiny and accountability in public finance management,” the statement read.
The House also raised concerns about the conduct of some heads of tertiary institutions, accusing them of failing to appear for budget defense sessions, despite their constitutional obligation to do so.
It added that this disregard for legislative oversight could impede accountability and governance.
Additionally, the House noted that certain institutions had pending audit queries from the office of the auditor-general of the federation, but had failed to address them before the House Committee on Public Accounts.
It also highlighted allegations of sexual harassment, abuse of office, and financial mismanagement in some federal universities, which the House seeks to investigate through its oversight functions.
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The statement criticized PREMIUM TIMES for failing to seek the House’s response before publishing the allegations, accusing the news outlet of engaging in “sensationalism.”
It challenged anyone with credible evidence of misconduct to present such to anti-corruption agencies like the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) or the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges.
The House reaffirmed its commitment to holding public institutions accountable, while following due process.
“Institutions that have adhered to laid-down procedures have had their budgets approved without issue, while those with outstanding obligations will be required to meet their responsibilities,” the statement added.
The lawmakers urged the media to uphold professionalism and integrity in their reportage, emphasizing the need for collaboration in strengthening democracy and promoting transparent governance.
