The House of Representatives has committed to safeguarding the country’s interests and ensuring transparency in the ongoing investigation into bribery allegations involving some of its members.
Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan had alleged that certain members sought a $150 million bribe during the standoff between the cryptocurrency platform and the Federal Government, a claim that Nigerian officials have rejected.
However, in a statement on Saturday, House spokesman Akin Rotimi (Jr) emphasized that, as an independent branch of government, the House is dedicated to maintaining due process, the rule of law, and constitutional oversight.
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“These allegations, which have been previously circulated last year, are directed at individual members, not the institution itself.”
It described the allegations as hefty, thus requiring some clarification.
“The Honourable Members named have assured the House Leadership that they never had any such dealings as reported. One of the members has already instituted legal action to clear his name, while others affected have been encouraged to do the same in pursuit of justice and the protection of their reputations,” the statement added.
According to him, with the US and Nigerian governments involved in the matter, the issue has now “evolved into a government-to-government engagement. Notably, in the course of high-level diplomatic discussions, the Federal Government of Nigeria has prioritized national interest over external commercial pressure, including rejecting financial settlement offers from Binance. These facts raise serious questions about the credibility and intent of the allegations being peddled.”
The House of Reps said since the matter has been taken to court and is a “matter of ongoing diplomatic engagements,” the lower lawmaker body “will refrain from further comment in line with established parliamentary, judicial, and diplomatic principles”.
“The House of Representatives urges the public to rely on verified facts and not be misled by recycled claims aimed at discrediting Nigerian institutions and public officials,” the statement read.
“The House remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.”
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