Daniel Bwala, the Spokesman for the Atiku Campaign Organisation, has proposed a comprehensive plan to transform Nigeria’s infrastructure, create jobs, and retain over $20 billion in the country’s economy annually.
Bwala’s strategy involves passing legislation to criminalize foreign travel for medical treatment, education, vacation, shopping, or any trip exceeding $500 in expenses for public servants, civil servants, elected officials, and their associates.
The proposed legislation aims to discourage public officials from seeking services abroad at the expense of Nigeria’s development.
Bwala suggested strict penalties, including a ten-year imprisonment without the option of a fine, for individuals who violate these travel restrictions.
Furthermore, the plan calls for a constitutional amendment to strip elected officials of their immunity, allowing them to be tried for offences related to violating the proposed travel legislation.
Bwala highlighted the need for alignment with existing laws to ensure consistency and coherence in the legal framework. He also advocates for expediting the resolution of cases related to these offences, proposing accelerated hearings and a bar on the stay of proceedings in such matters.
In addition, Bwala stressed the importance of holding judicial officers accountable for compromising cases related to these offences. He suggested their removal from the bench and trial for the same offences they might have facilitated.
”If you do that, I guarantee you Nigeria’s public schools, hospitals, and recreational centres will be like their European counterparts in just three years,” he added.
