The House of Representatives marked its third legislative anniversary with several far-reaching decisions on security, constitutional reforms, and public safety before adjourning plenary until July 7. Lawmakers resolved minority leadership disputes, advanced the state police proposal, summoned security chiefs over worsening insecurity, and ordered a probe into a fatal train accident.
House Resolves Minority Leadership Dispute
Speaker Abbas Tajudeen announced the minority leadership team during Thursday's plenary, ending days of controversy. Fred Agbedi (PDP, Bayelsa) was named minority leader, Abdussamad Dasuki (ADC, Sokoto) as deputy minority leader, and Manu Soro (APM, Bauchi) as minority whip. The announcement followed disputes over the nomination of Ikenga Ugochinyere (APP, Imo), which centered on House rules regarding legislative experience for principal offices.
State Police Proposal Scales Major Hurdle
The House passed a bill seeking to establish state police, receiving overwhelming support with 289 votes in favor and only one against. The bill, part of constitutional amendment efforts to address insecurity, was also passed by the Senate and referred to its Committee on Constitution Review. If differences arise between the chambers, a harmonization committee will resolve them before the bill is sent to state assemblies for approval.
Reps Summon Service Chiefs, NSA Over North-West Insecurity
On Tuesday, the House summoned service chiefs and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu to appear before lawmakers. The decision followed a motion by Sulaiman Gumi of Zamfara State, who warned of escalating attacks, kidnappings, and banditry causing a humanitarian crisis in several states. Lawmakers criticized ineffective security measures and called for technology-driven solutions. They urged the Ministry of Defence to deploy additional personnel and equipment and advocated non-military interventions to address poverty and unemployment.
Lawmakers Demand Results or Resignation of Service Chiefs
In a separate resolution, the House called for immediate action against banditry, kidnappings, and attacks on schools and places of worship. Lawmakers demanded an aggressive security strategy to dismantle criminal camps and secure vulnerable communities. They declared that if insecurity continues unabated, service chiefs should resign honourably for failing to protect lives and property.
House Orders Probe of Fatal Train Accident
The House ordered a comprehensive investigation into a train accident along the Itakpe-Warri rail corridor that claimed at least four lives and left several passengers injured. Lawmakers noted emotional trauma, financial losses, and disruption of activities. The House urged the Nigerian Railway Corporation to conduct a thorough investigation, release findings, and implement preventive measures.
Reps Adjourn Plenary Until July
The House adjourned plenary until July 7 for the annual end-of-legislative-year break and constituency engagements. Speaker Abbas Tajudeen stated that the recess would allow lawmakers to study constitutional amendment bills. The adjournment coincides with the third anniversary of the 10th National Assembly, inaugurated on June 13, 2023. Lawmakers will reflect on performance, engage with constituents, and prepare for the final legislative year.
