Enforcement of Code of Ethics and Legislators’ Behaviour in Nigeria’s 9th House of Representatives, Nigeria

Abstract

The essential institution of a democratic administration is the legislature. Meanwhile, there have been major setbacks in its integrity and public trust due to challenges including unethical behaviours. Relying on the postulations of the Institutional Theory and the survey research design, the study investigated the extent to which the enforcement of the code of ethics was effective 
among members of Nigeria’s 9th House of Representatives. A total of 358 questionnaires were administered to stakeholders in legislative activities, including Lawmakers, Legislative Aides and Academics from the National Assembly think-tank. The data were analysed using statistical tools. The findings of the study reveal, among others, that the enforcement of ethical standards among 
legislators is weak and ineffective. The findings suggest that weak institutional oversight, selective enforcement and a lack of transparency in handling ethical breaches contribute to weak enforcement mechanism. It concluded that without stronger enforcement mechanisms such as the establishment of the ‘Independent Ethical Standard Compliance Commission (ESCC)’ for 
Legislators and stricter disciplinary measures, ethical violations will likely persist. The study recommends strengthening compliance, enhanced transparency, greater institutional independence and public reporting of ethical breaches. Without these, the existing measures may fall short of ensuring consistent adherence to the Code of Ethics among legislators.