The House of Representatives has issued a stern warning to various government ministries, departments, and agencies, threatening to use its constitutional powers, including the issuance of arrest warrants, for their failure to cooperate with an ongoing investigation into the Naira-for-Crude Oil Policy.
Committee Outrage Over Non-Compliance
The Ad-Hoc Committee, led by Hon. Boniface Emerengwa, expressed deep frustration on Thursday after key stakeholders invited to an investigative hearing failed to appear. The no-show, which also involved a refusal to submit critical documents, forced the postponement of the hearing originally scheduled for 20 November 2025.
Emerengwa, visibly angered, described the behaviour as "gross negligence, indifference and an unacceptable display of disrespect" for the legislative process. He stated that this act constitutes a direct challenge to the authority of the National Assembly and a dereliction of duty towards the Nigerian people.
Final Ultimatum and Consequences
In response to the defiance, the committee has issued a strict seven-day ultimatum. All defaulting entities must submit the requested documents on or before 27 November 2025. Emerengwa emphasized that this extension is a final act of magnanimity and that failure to comply will trigger immediate legislative action.
The potential consequences for non-compliance are severe and include:
- Issuance of summons and subpoenas
- Public naming and shaming of non-compliant entities
- Recommendation of sanctions to regulatory bodies
- Escalation to the House plenary for disciplinary measures
- Issuance of arrest warrants where necessary
Rescheduled Hearing and Final Warning
The investigative hearing has now been rescheduled to 2 December 2025 at 12:00 PM in Conference Room 440. Emerengwa declared this new date as "final and non-negotiable."
He urged all stakeholders to take the matter with the utmost seriousness, warning that the House will not allow its oversight role to be undermined. "The time for excuses is over. The time for accountability is now. The Nigerian people are watching," he concluded, sending a clear message that the committee is prepared to deploy its full powers to ensure compliance.
