IMPACT OF THE 9TH NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ON ANTI-CURRUPTION INSTITUTION IN NIGERIA, 2019-2023

Abstract

The battle against corruption in Nigeria has been a key focus of governance reform, especially since the return to democracy in 1999. Institutions aimed at combating corruption, like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), have played a vital role in fostering accountability and transparency. The 9^th National Assembly (2019-2023) was convened during a period when public expectations were heightened for legislative moves that could either bolster or weaken these institutions. This study assesses the influence of the legislative actions taken by the 9^th National Assembly on anti-corruption institutions in Nigeria throughout this period. Specifically, it investigates the nature and purpose of the bills passed, the oversight roles performed, and the financial resources allocated to key anti-corruption agencies. Employing a qualitative research approach, the study utilizes both primary and secondary data sources, including legislative documents, committee findings, expert interviews, and media reviews. The theoretical framework is based on Principal-Agent Theory, which assists in clarifying the interactions between legislative entities and anti-corruption organizations. The findings indicate a complicated relationship between political motivations, institutional changes, and the legislative process. Although the 9^th Assembly enacted several bills aimed at enhancing anti-corruption efforts, the effectiveness of these laws is hampered by frail implementation strategies, political meddling, and duplicative institutions. The study concludes that, despite legislative actions having a measurable effect, they did not achieve transformative reforms. It advocates for improved legislative independence, increased involvement from civil society, and tighter performance monitoring of anti-corruption institutions.