The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate allegations of smuggling involving personnel of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

The decision was made during Wednesday’s plenary session following the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Oluwaseun Whingan, the representative for Badagry Federal Constituency, Lagos State.

Whingan highlighted an incident earlier this month in Badagry, where a journalist was reportedly assaulted while attempting to record video footage at what was described as a “smuggling zone.” The lawmaker expressed concern over the conduct of Customs officers, calling for a probe into their activities and the legal framework guiding the NCS.

The motion was referred to the Committee on Customs and Excise for further investigation.

Meanwhile, during the same plenary, a bill seeking to amend the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000, passed second reading. The bill, sponsored by Hon. Akiolu Moshood Kayode, representing Lagos Island, aims to introduce mandatory counselling and training for individuals convicted of corruption-related offences.

Leading the debate, Kayode explained that the bill seeks to expand Section 67 of the Principal Act by including provisions requiring magistrates and judges to impose mandatory counselling and training alongside imprisonment or fines for corruption offences.

He emphasised that the proposed measures acknowledge the connection between mental disposition and the accumulation of illicit wealth, aiming to reform offenders and reduce corruption in the long term.