Civil Society Groups Demand Senate Explain Reversal of Proceeds of Crime Bill

Civil society groups have asked the Senate to publicly explain why it rescinded its July 9, 2026 passage of the Proceeds of Crime (Recovery and Management) Amendment Bill. They described the reversal as a setback for efforts to improve the recovery, management and accountability of assets linked to crime. The bill proposed a standalone agency to trace, recover, preserve, manage and dispose of suspected proceeds of unlawful activity. The groups said it had already passed first and second readings, committee review, a public hearing, clause-by-clause consideration and third reading. They noted reports alleging that Senate President Godswill Akpabio influenced the rescission motion moved by Senate Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele. The groups said the allegation has not been established, but called for a clear response and disclosure of any legal, constitutional, drafting or policy concerns behind the decision. They urged the Senate to return to the bill without delay and address any valid concerns through an open and evidence-based process.

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