The House of Representatives on Wednesday passed for second reading a bill seeking to amend the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, in a bid to bolster Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework and enhance asset recovery mechanisms.
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Sponsored by Hon. Yusuf Gagdi (Kanke/Pankshin/Kanam Federal Constituency, Plateau State), the bill seeks to modernize the nation’s anti-graft laws in response to increasingly sophisticated financial crimes.
During debate, Gagdi described money laundering and illicit financial flows as major challenges to governance. He noted that despite existing legislation, large volumes of illegal funds continue to circulate through Nigeria’s financial and property sectors via complex schemes.
“The amendment introduces a civil recovery mechanism to enable the government to reclaim assets linked to unexplained wealth without requiring a criminal conviction,” Gagdi explained. “While the current Act emphasizes criminal prosecution and forfeiture, it places a heavy evidential burden on law enforcement agencies. The proposed civil model complements this by shifting the burden of proof to individuals in possession of questionable assets.”
He cited similar models in the United Kingdom, Kenya, and South Africa as effective in deterring corruption and promoting accountability.
The proposed amendment seeks to:
- Establish a clear legal framework for civil recovery orders;
- Empower anti-graft agencies, including the EFCC, to obtain ex parte court orders to restrain assets inconsistent with legitimate income; and
- Ensure a transparent judicial process.
Gagdi stressed that the reform would promote integrity in both public and private sectors, ensuring citizens live within their lawful means.
Following deliberations, the House unanimously passed the bill for second reading through a voice vote led by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas. The bill has now been referred to the relevant House Committee for further legislative work, including a public hearing, before its final reading.
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