The amended bill which initially allowed just a fine of N100,000 as punishment to writers of false petitions, was passed on Tuesday, May 30, after Abdul Kwari, chairman of the senate committee on anti-corruption presented a report.

The Nigerian senate has passed a bill seeking to amend the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) act to imprison writers of false petitions for two years without an option of a fine.

The amended bill which initially allowed just a fine of N100,000 as punishment to writers of false petition, was passed on Tuesday, May 30, after Abdul Kwari, chairman of the senate committee on anti-corruption presented a report.

Kwari noted that there’s need to make the punishment for writing false petitions stringent to deter people from misleading the commission.

Senate President, Ahmad Lawan who also commented on the amended bill, said those who want to commit such an offence would have a rethink. He added that it would enhance the operations of the ICPC.