The House of Representatives has called on the lawmaker representing Hadejia/Auyo/Kafin Hausa Federal Constituency in Jigawa State, Ibrahim Auyo, to substantiate his claims that legislators pay to move motions and bills in the green chamber.

Auyo, a member of the All Progressives Congress, had told his constituents during a meeting in Jigawa that lawmakers pay between ₦1 million and ₦3 million to present motions, bills, and petitions.

In videos circulating online, the legislator responded to criticisms from constituents over his perceived inactivity in sponsoring motions and bills, alleging that such initiatives come at a steep financial cost.

Speaking in Hausa, Auyo explained that the fees were part of the process to ensure proposals were passed, while dismissing accusations that he had failed to assist constituents in securing employment.

In a statement issued on Friday, the House, through its spokesperson, Akin Rotimi, stated that the lawmaker will face the ethics panel if he fails to substantiate his claim.

The statement reads, “The House of Representatives has taken note of a viral video in which Rep. Ibrahim Usman Auyo, Member representing Hadejia, Auyo, and Kafin Hausa Federal Constituency of Jigawa State, who alleged that Members of the House receive payments to sponsor Motions, Bills, and Petitions.

“These allegations are unsubstantiated and, if left unclarified, risk undermining public confidence in the National Assembly.

“Statements of this nature must be backed by verifiable facts and presented through the appropriate parliamentary channels.”

Rotimi stated that the National Assembly is an institution of records, with well-established and transparent procedures for introducing bills, motions, and petitions, governed by the Constitution, House Standing Orders, and parliamentary ethics.

He said, “The insinuation that sponsoring a motion or bill is a ‘contract job’ involving bribes is inconsistent with these processes and must be clarified.

“When the House reconvenes, Rep. Auyo will be invited to substantiate his claims before the House.

“Should he be unable to provide evidence, the matter will be referred to the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges for appropriate consideration, in line with parliamentary procedure.”

He added that the house remains committed to fostering mutual respect among members while upholding the dignity of parliament.