Nigeria National Assembly: Plenary proceedings of the House of Representatives for Tuesday, October 3rd 2023.

After leading the opening prayer and recitation of the national pledge, the Deputy Speaker approved the votes and proceedings of Tuesday, September 26th, 2023.

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The Deputy Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu celebrated Nigerians on the 63rd Independence Day, the Eid-el Maulud, as well as the birthday of the Honorable Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen. The Deputy Speaker further commended all sides that worked together to avert the intended strike by the NLC and the TUC.

He stressed that the strike would have been a blow to the economy of the country and showed pleasure at the willingness of the Executive to come up with practical terms to ensure the economic pains faced by labor is cushioned until more permanent measures are put in place. Rt. Hon. Kalu commended the pledge to procure mass transit that use gas for the people and make the conversion from petroleum to gas for motorists more affordable. He further stressed the need for Parliament to partner with the Executive to ensure that affordable refining of petroleum products begin at the nation’s refineries within the shortest possible time.

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ANNOUNCEMENT:

1. Notice of meeting of the Selection Committee at Meeting Room 301 today by 4:00 PM.
2. The various Ad-Hoc Committees of the House are to be shut down to make way for Standing Committees to carry out their statutory duties. Chairmen of Ad-Hoc Committees should submit their reports and indicate that the Standing Committees should continue from where that have stopped.

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PETITIONS:

1. Hon. Afam Ogene laid 10 petitions on behalf of different complainants.
2. Hon. Famous Adesuwa laid a petition on behalf of some oil company workers against Sterling Oil and its subsidiaries on the need to reguralize staff employment status in accordance with the Nigerian Labour laws.
3. Hon. Ginger Obinna laid a petition on behalf of of a complainant from Federal University of Technology Owerri seeking the House to use its legislative tools to ensure the problem with its ASUU chapter is resolved.
4. Hon. Umar laid a petition from a complainant on a breach of the context of the Petroleum Industry Act and breach of contractual terms against Sterling Oil company.
5. Hon. Bassey laid 2 petitions on financial neglect of a military retiree and another on behalf of some Cross Riverians on the need for them to be reinstated to their ancestral homes from where they have been been displaced, as the government had earlier promised this reinstatement.

The petitions were referred to the House Committee on Public Petitions.

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MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE:

1. Hon. Kabiru Mai-Palace moved a motion on the need to address the escalating and persistent insecurity and banditry in the Northwest region of Nigeria, and it was seconded by Hon. Aliyu Abubakar. Hon. Kabiru in leading the debate stressed the increase in violence by bandits in the Northeastern region of Nigeria that culminated in the abduction of some female students in the University of Zamfara State, as well as the abduction of some National Youth Service Corps members traveling to Sokoto state.

He further mentioned other incidents of violence against innocent Nigerians within different States of the region. Hon. Kabiru called on the Federal government to ensure the release of all abductees and ensure the perpetrators are apprehended. He further called on the government to deploy additional security personnel to the hotbeds of the region and that the House Committee on Legislative Compliance should ensure compliance.

Hon. Ismail Haruna proposed an amendment to incorporate parts of the Northeast, especially Bauchi state in the prayers of the motion.

Hon. Suleiman Gummi further proposed an amendment calling for synergy in the fight against banditry in the Northwest. He called on the House to mandate the National Security Adviser to organize a security conference to ensure all hands remain on deck to tackle the continuous menace of banditry/insecurity.

Hon. Abdullahi Balarabe proposed an amendment to ensure indigenous participation in the plans to resolve the lingering issues of banditry and insecurity.

Hon. Isa Mohammed proposed an amendment to ensure the implementation of resolutions reached during the previous administration. He also called for the investigation of the activities and infiltration of illegal miners in the region which is a direct catalyst to the rising insecurity in the region.

Hon. Bello Kaoje proposed an amendment calling for a more wholistic investigation into the immediate and remote causes of the banditry and insecurity in the Northwest, especially its connection to illegal mining. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committees on Defense, National Security, Police Affairs, as well as that on Legislative Compliance for further legislative action.

2. Hon. Nnolim Nnaji moved a motion on the urgent need to reconstruct the collapsed bridge on the Enugu-Port-Harcourt Express road along the Enugu axis and it was seconded by Hon. Ginger Obinna. Hon. Nnaji in leading the debate stressed the importance of reconstructing the bridge on the ever busy highway, as well as the need to ensure its upkeep as it is a route that supports high volume of economic travel and a major link for states within the region. He further stressed the need to ensure the road is properly maintained to protect the sanctity of lives and properties.

Hon. Nnaji called on the Ministry of Works to ensure all such roads are properly maintained and that the relevant Committees of the House should ensure compliance. Hon. Agbedi Frederick proposed an amendment to tie the compliance period for further legislative action to 3 weeks. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to to the House Committee on Works, Federal Road Maintenance Agency, as well as that on Niger Delta Development Commission.

3. Hon. Ahmed Jaha moved a motion on the urgent need to stop the killing of peasant farmers in Borno State and provide a safe platform for such farmers to safely harvest their farm produce and it was seconded by Hon. Dickson Tarkighir. Hon. Jaha in moving the motion stressed the need for the safe practice of agriculture to ensure food availability, urging the Federal government, as well as the Borno State government to ensure security coordination and intelligence gathering in the region to ensure the security of farmers.

He further stressed the need for more investment in efforts and finance by government to ensure these safety measures which should lead to improved productivity are met. Hon. Jaha also called for the collaboration of the traditional leaders and indigenous communities to ensure the success of the harvest season in order to defeat the aim of Boko Haram who are the perpetrators of these acts of terrorism on farmers.

Hon. Midala Balami proposed an amendment to extend the prayers of the motion to cover Askira Uba area of Borno State where farmers are suffering the same plight.

Hon. Dachung Bagos further proposed an amendment for the prayers of the motion to be extended nationwide and that agro rangers should be deployed to deal with these cases of insecurity against farmers.

Hon. Mohammed Katsina proposed an amendment calling on all State Governors to organize themselves as a single unit and combat insecurity to farmers in all States for a more holistic approach. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committees on Security, Defense, as well as that on Police Affairs.

The Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu stressed the need for government to act on resolutions of the House to tackle insecurity in the Northwest, Northeast and other parts of the country. He called on Honourable members to continue to use their positions as representatives of the people to always call on government to act accordingly on behalf of the Nigerian people.

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DEBATE FOR NIGERIA @ 63:

Following a directive from the Deputy Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the Leader of the House, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere moved a motion to create a platform for Honorables members to express themselves on Nigeria at 63 and it was seconded by the Minority Leader, Hon. Kingsley Chinda. Hon. Ihonvbere in leading the debate praised the progress of Nigeria at 63. He praised the efforts of the present administration for its evident zeal in steering the affairs of the nation despite the difficult prevailing terrain. He further urged the political class and all Nigerians to work together to make Nigeria greater.

Hon. Sada Soli in contributing to the debate praised the efforts of Nigerians in all works of life exhibiting zest for growth and development through diverse skills. He however bemoaned the fact that Nigerians seem to grapple with the same cycle of problems. He called on Nigerians to come together and redefine and implement the national vision for greatness. Hon. Soli called for the restructuring and development of the public service sector to ensure effective service delivery.

Hon. Kingsley Chinda called on Honourable members as representatives of the people to shoulder the responsibility bestowed on them in trust by Nigerians in the discharge of their duties. He wondered why Nigerians are not economically independent and called for leadership in action and not just talk.

Hon. Babajimi Benson stressed on the need for Nigerians to get it right with the instrument of constitution, institutions and individuals who should strive to be extraordinary for the success of the nation. He explained that Nigeria as a nation has all it takes to succeed with a thriving market force.

Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki stressed the need to tackle insecurity as a base for development. He stressed the need for a practical living wage for Nigerians as stated by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen in a recent speech. He called on the legislature to ensure this is done to tackle corruption for Nigerians especially at this time of independence. The Deputy Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu further praised the Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen for the speech and stressed that a living wage will definitely go a long way in kick-starting “the Nigeria of our dreams.”

Hon. Khadija Ibrahim called for true unity of purpose for Nigerians devoid of tribe, tongue or religion to tackle the common problems of citizens. She appealed to all Nigerians to come together in a singular sense of purpose to eradicate poverty and insecurity so that Nigeria can stand proud among the commity of nations. Deputy Speaker of the House, praised the call for unity as it is the base of true development across regions.

Hon. Olumide Osoba called for the stopping of the prevailing brain drain and solid mineral theft in Nigeria for internal development. The Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu agreed and stressed the need for the development of the mineral industry to spread economic wealth to more Nigerians.

Hon. Dachung Bagos called for harmony from all arms of government to ensure good governance for all Nigerians. He stressed the need for technological development in the nation to positively engage the youth so that they will be deterred from vices such as financial crimes, drug abuse, banditry and insecurity.

Hon. Donald Kimiganboh called on Nigerians to restore initial values of trust among all regions. He stated that the trust among all will be the foundation of true national development. The Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu stressed the need for trust that makes all Nigerians see nationality first before regions just as past leaders exhibited.

Hon. Ahmed Jaha praised the resilience of Nigerians to stay united despite various challenges. He called on all Nigerians to live up to the expectations of Africa and the world at large.

Hon. Afam Ogene called on the government to provide quick resolution to national insecurity. He also called for dialogue for political differences as well as the release of Nnamdi Kanu to reduce the insecurity in the Southeastern region of the nation.

Hon. Mansur Musa wondered how the common trust and love which Nigerians had for one another in the past has evaporated due to insecurity and desperation due to poverty. He called for the restoration of that kind of mindset for true national peace, security and development.

Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka called for the legislature to organize an all-encompassing national policy dialogue of all sectors to ensure practical national policies work for true economic development.

Hon. Blessing Amadi called for a reform of the federal character principle in provision of projects and appointments so that those marginalized in the allocation of resources of Nigeria can be addressed.

Hon. Regina Akume called for more patriotism and love for the nation so that Nigeria remains united and progressive.

The Deputy Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu appealed to Honourable members that the day is far spent and not everyone can speak, even though they want to. This he stressed is so that the other businesses of the day on the Order paper can be attended to.
Hon. Solomon Bob queried the ending of the debate before he was given an opportunity to speak on Nigeria’s independence calling it a breach of his right.

Hon. Sada Soli pointed out that the Deputy Speaker in his wisdom had stated that not everyone could speak due to the lack of time and that was in his right as the Chair to regulate the debate. Hon. Solomon Bob was asked by the House Committee Chairman on Ethics and Privilege, Hon. Garba Inuwa to apologize to the Chair or risk the wrath of the rules of the House. Hon. Solomon Bob rose to apologize to the House for any word he might have used that was deemed to be offensive to the Chair or Members of the House.

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PRESENTATION OF BILLS:

1. Institute of Chartered Corporate and Business Affairs Management of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.480) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere) – First Reading.
2. Standards Organisation of Nigeria Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2023 (HB.481) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere) – First Reading.
3. Nigerian Peace Corps (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.482) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere) – First Reading.
4. National Housing Fund Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.483) (Hon. Martins Esin) – First Reading.
5. National Youth Service Corps Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.484) (Hon. Martins Esin) – First Reading.
6. Federal Medical Centre, Koko Delta State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.485) (Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi) – First Reading.
7. Federal College of Agriculture, Misau, Bauchi State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.486) (Hon. Aliyu Bappa Misau) – First Reading.
8. Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.487) (Hon. Morufu Adewale Adebayo) – First Reading.
9. National Football Academy, Kpor, Rivers State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.488) (Hon. Dumnamene R. Dekor) – First Reading.
10. Federal Medical Centre, Ugwuaji Awkunanaw, Enugu State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.489) (Hon. Chimaobi Sam Atu) – First Reading.
11. Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.490) (Hon. Paul Sunday Nnamchi) – First Reading.
12. Federal College of Entrepreneurship and Skill Acquisition Ikem Nkwo, Enugu State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.491) (Hon. Paul Sunday Nnamchi) – First Reading.
13. Nigerian Communications Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.492) (Hon. Miriam Onuoha) – First Reading.
14. Federal Capital Territory Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.493) (Hon. Miriam Onuoha) – First Reading.
15. Federal College of Education Mutum Biyu, Taraba State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.494) (Hon. Jaafaru Yakubu) – First Reading.
16. Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.495) (Hon. Ibrahim Hamisu) – First Reading.
17. Federal College of Entrepreneurship and Skill Acquisition, Ode-Itsekiri, Delta State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.496) (Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi) – First Reading.
18. Federal Institute of Technology and Entrepreneurship, Bungudu (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.497) (Hon. Abdulmalik Zubairu) – First Reading.
19. Petroleum Industry Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.498) (Hon. Sekav Dzua Iyortyom) – First Reading.
20. Federal Medical Centre, Port Harcourt (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.499) (Hon. Blessing Chigeru Amadi) – First Reading.

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PRESENTATION OF REPORTS:

1. Ad–hoc Committee on the Need to Investigate the Arbitrary Increase of Petrol Pump Price from N537 to N617:
   Hon. Babajimi Benson:

“That the House do receive the Report of the Ad–hoc Committee on the Need to Investigate the Arbitrary Increase of Petrol Pump Price from N537 to N617” (Referred 19/7/23);

The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Babajimi Benson, and seconded by Hon. Ojema Ojotu.

2. Ad–hoc Committee on Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB):

Hon. Akume Regina:

”That the House do receive the Repot of the Ad–hoc Committee on Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) on the Extension of the Validity period of UTME Result for at least three (3) years and conduct of the Examination twice Annually” (HR.68/07/2023) ( Referred:7/2023)

The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Regina Akume and seconded by Hon. Akin Alabi.

3. Ad–hoc Committee to Investigate Alleged Fictitious Contract Awards, Gross Mismanagement of Billions of Naira and Lopsided placement of Directors by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA):

Hon. Kelechi Nwogu:

“That the House do receive the Report of the Ad–hoc Committee to Investigate alleged fictitious Contract Awards, Gross Mismanagement of Billions of Naira and Lopsided Placement of Directors by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA)”: (HR.57/07/2023) (Referred:12/7/2023).

Laying of the report was stepped down by leave of the House.

4. Ad–hoc Committee to Investigate the cause of Delay in Completing the Construction of the Abuja – Kaduna – Kano Highway:

Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki:

“That the House do receive the Repot of the Ad–hoc Committee to investigate the cause of Delay in Completing the Construction of the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Highway” (HR./31/07/2023) (Referred: 6/7/2023).

The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki and seconded by Hon. Unyime Idem.

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ORDERS OF THE DAY:

BILL:

1. A Bill for an Act to Provide a Policy Framework for the Development of Bio-Fuels Energy Industry in Nigeria, Establish Bio-Fuels Energy Regulatory Commission, Establish Bio – Fuels Research Agency; and Bio–Fuels Research Agency and for Related Matters (HB. 08) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu and six Others) – Second Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Khadija Ibrahim moved for the second reading of the Bill, and it was seconded by Hon. Agbedi Frederick. Hon. Ibrahim in leading the debate stressed the need for migrating from fossil fuels and promote the use of bio-fuels for the protection of the climate and reducing the effect of climate change. She bemoaned the fact that many years after the declaration, little success has been recorded nationally in this regard. Hon. Ibrahim recognized the efforts of government to subsidize the switch to the production and adoption of bio-fuels and hence the Bill is structured to ensure the safe conversion and adoption to environmentally friendly bio-fuels which will also ensure improvements in financial benefits, improved agricultural output, clean energy assurance amongst various other benefits. She stated that the migration will require initial funds for setting up but the profit will be definitely worth the initial investment. She called on Honorable members to support the Bill for passage. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House committee on Science Research Institutes.

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MOTIONS:

2. Call on the Inspector General of Police (IGF) to Intensify Efforts to Secure the Immediate and Safe Release of the Seven Abducted Corps Members in Zamfara State.
   Hon. Unyime Idenm​​ Hon. Emmanuel Ukpongudo ​Hon. Okpolupm Etteh
   Hon. Paul Ekpo​​ Hon. Ime Bassey Okon​​ Hon. Clement Jimbo
   Hon. Martins Esin​​Hon. Patrick Umoh​​​ Hon. Mark Esset
   Hon. Uduak Odudoh:

The House:

Notes that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is a vital national programme aimed at fostering unity and promoting national development by deploying graduates to various States for a mandatory one year of service;

Also notes that on 17 August 2023, eight corps members from Akwa Ibom State were abducted by gunmen in Zamfara State, on their way to the place of primary assignment (PPA) with a current demand of two hundred million Naira;

Aware that in May 2023, seven corps members were kidnapped in Rivers State on their way from the orientation camp in Ondo State and released after paying ransom;

Alarmed at the incident accounts for the many other corps members who have had to go through the traumatic experience of abduction in the course of their service to the nation;

Worried that continuous re-occurrence targeted at innocent corps members has raised significant security concerns, threatened the lives of young citizens, eroded public trust and confidence in the government’s ability to protect its citizens, and posed the potential to mar the core objective of the National Youth Service Corps;

Cognizant of the urgent need for drastic measures to secure the immediate release of the remaing seven abducted corps members following the release of one of them, as confirmed by the Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) on 20 September 2023 and restore confidence in the nation’s national security system;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and other security agencies to intensify efforts and deploy personnel and intelligence capabilities to secure the immediate and safe release of the seven abducted corps members still in captivity; and

(ii) mandate the Committee on National Security and Intelligence to ensure compliance and report back within one ( 1 ) week for further legislative action.

Debate:

Hon. Unyime Idem moved the motion on the call on on the Inspector General of Police (IGF) to intensify efforts to secure the immediate and safe release of seven abducted Corps Members in Zamfara State, and it was seconded by Hon. Nwogu Kelechi. Hon. Kabiru Maipalace proposed amendments to change the heading of the motion to incorporate the 40 female students of the university in Zamfara State in the heading and in the prayers of the motion. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House committee on National Security and Intelligence.

3. Need to Avert the Rising Tension of Sea incursion Ravaging Ayetoro Community in llaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.

Hon. Donald Kimikanoh Ojogo:

The House:

Notes that the oil-producing Ayetoro Community is not just a major revenue source of the nation, but a phenomenal historical and cultural settlement along the coastal stretch of llaje Local Government Area of Ondo State;

Also notes that Ayetoro Community and its environs account for 5.4 per cent of the 60,000 Barrel Per Day (BPD) of Ondo State’s crude oil production output amounting to about 3.7 per cent of Nigeria’s total oil production ranking Ondo State 5th among Nigeria’s oil-producing states as captured by the NDDC law;

Disturbed that devastating sea incursions and ocean surges have been the albatross of the Ayetoro community for over two decades destroying properties and displacement of indigenes, thus disrupting the oil-exploration activities owing to varied reactions by indigenes of the area;

Worried that the surge has become an annual occurrence and an alarming rate that successive administrations in Ondo State appear and overwhelmed, thus helpless;

Also disturbed that the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in 2004 attempted to stem the slide by awarding the contract for the construction of a shoreline protective wall designed with a tube technology in Ayetoro to Gallet Nigeria Limited at an original contract sum of N6.4 billion, of which 25 per cent was reportedly paid, but the contract was revoked in 2009 for alleged lack of capacity and re-awarded to Dredging Atlantic Limited at an undisclosed cost and sixteen years after the contract was first awarded, there is nothing to show any intervention by the government;

Concerned that owing to this pitiable level of no action by the mobilised contractor(s), a particular surge that happened towards the end of the year 2020 reportedly caused the displacement of nearly 2,000 people, 13 deaths and the destruction of over 200 homes;

Also concerned that the situation has generated tension in the oil-producing communities as restive youths have reportedly commenced mobilising themselves to disrupt the lawful activities of oil-producing companies, thereby creating a state of unease and seeming insecurity;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to urgently provide temporary relief materials to cushion the immediate impact of the ravaging sea incursion on the latest victims;

(ii) mandate the Committees on Niger Delta Development Commission and Ecological Fund to investigate the failure of the performance of the N6.5 billion shoreline protection contract awarded by the Niger Delta Development Commission in 2006 to find an alternative solution where necessary, to stem the dangerous side and report back to the House in four (4) weeks;

(iii) also mandate the Committee on Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance.

Debate:

Hon. Donald Ojogo moved the motion on the need to avert the rising tension of sea incursion ravaging Ayetoro community in llaje local government area of Ondo State, and it was seconded by Hon. Chijoke Okereke. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Legislative Compliance.

4. Need to Intervene in the Flooding and Resultant Gully Erosion in Amekpu, Elu, Nkporo, Ihechiowa, Abam, Aru and Ututu Communities of Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, Abia State.

Hon. Ibe Okwara Osonwa:

The House:

Notes that various communities in Abia State’s Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, including Amekpu, Elu, Nkporo, Ihechiowa, Abam, Arochukwu, and Ututu, are experiencing an increase in floods and gully erosion, The topsoil, which is rich in nutrients essential for agriculture, has been washed away by erosion with farmers’ livelihood harmed by the loss of fertile land, thus leading a decline in agricultural productivity;

Concerned that flooding and erosion have caused the foundations of buildings, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure to collapse and deteriorate, posing a hazard to the safety of the population and impeding transportation and economic activity in the area;

Also concerned that community of Ebem Ohafia, has lost homes, and clans have been displaced, including the traditional monarch palace, which has withstood erosion damage since it was built in 1921;

Worried that the relentless impact of these natural disasters has resulted in significant hardships for Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, threatening the lives and overall well-being of the Community;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide immediate relief materials to ameliorate the sufferings of the people;

(ii) also urge the Federal Ministry of Works and the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to commence rehabilitation to prevent further loss of lives and properties;

(iii) further urge the Federal Government to increase Ecological Funding to address the menace of erosion in Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency of Abia State, which has become a threat to the lives and properties of the affected Communities;

(iv) mandate the Committees on Environment, Ecological Funds, Niger Delta Ministry, Niger Delta Development Commission and Emergency Disaster Preparedness to ensure compliance.

Debate:

Hon. Ibe Osonwa moved the motion on the need to intervene in the flooding and resultant gully erosion in Amekpu, Elu, Nkporo, Ihechiowa, Abam, Aru and Ututu communities of Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, Abia State, and it was seconded by Hon. Miriam Onuoha. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Environment, Ecology, Niger Delta Development Commission, Niger Delta Ministry as well as that on Disaster Preparedness.

5. Need to Rehabilitate the Kirirkiri Federal Road in Ajeromi – Ifelodun Federal Constituency of Lagos State.

Hon. Kalejaiye Adeboye Paul:

The House:

Notes that the 6.4km road between the entry to Boundary Roundabout in Ajeromi-Ifelodun Federal Constituency and exit at the Kirikiri Roundabout of Amuwo Odofin Federal Constituency is a federal road that has been constructed in the last 30 years and has remained unattended to since then;

Also notes that the road is in deplorable condition and has only witnessed minor repairs as carried out by FERMA about five years ago;

Further notes that the maintenance carried out by Federal Road Maintenance Agencies collapsed a few months;

Aware that the road is a major link to Lagos Island, Mile 2 express road, and Kirikiri Prison yard;

Cognizant of the need to rehabilitate the Boundary Market, Orodu Junction 30SquareMeter, Boundary Bridge Ayeke Bus Stop T Junction 15SquareMeter, Amore Junction before Tolu Medical 4.5 SquareMeter, Bale Road Hausa Line Junction 10 SquareMeter, Bale Road Green Land Bus Stop 25SquareMeter, Bale Road Gbadesere Junction 9 SquareMeter, Kirikiri Road Akere Health Center 24 SquareMeter, Kiri Kiri Road Odus Bus Stop 46 SquareMeter, Kirikiri Road 1st Benue Bus Stop 4 SquareMeter, Kiri Kiri Road Goddey Bus Stop 10 SquareMeter, Kiri Kiri Road People Bus Stop 40SquareMeter, Kiri Kiri Road Formula Two Bus Stop Failed Drainage of 80 Parameter in both wings, Kiri Kiri Road Berger Suya Bus Stop 1500 SquareMeter, Kiri Kiri Road Berger Bridge immediately after descending 600SquareMeter;

Worried that the commercial and social life of the people has been seriously affected due to continuous neglect of the road;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to carry out comprehensive rehabilitation of the road;

(ii) also urge the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency to undergo proper rehabiliatation of the entire drainage and ensure it is motorable all year round; and

(iii) mandate the Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA)to ensure implementation.

Debate:

Hon. Kalejaiye Paul moved the motion on the need to rehabilitate the Kirirkiri federal road in Ajeromi – Ifelodun Federal Constituency of Lagos State, and it was seconded by Hon. Dennis Idahosa. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Federal Road Maintenance Agency.

6. Need to Re-construct Abandoned Portions of the East – West Road Connecting Major Communities in Bayelsa State.

Hon. Oforji Oboku:

The House:

Notes the avoidable disaster which befell the indigenes and residents of Bayelsa State and other parts of the country, especially the coastal regions during last year’s flood;

Also notes the devastation and total neglect of critical portions of the EastWest Road, specifically at Iheke in Ahoada East LGA of Rivers State, Aven in Patani LGA and Umeh in Isoko South LGA, both of Delta State, which connects Bayelsa State to Rivers and Delta States specifically and the country in general;

Concerned that these portions of roads collapsed during last year’s ravaging flood which destroyed lives, properties and critical infrastructures, especially around the coastal areas of the country;

Worried that portions of the roads, some of which were temporarily rehabilitated by the Federal Government and the Bayelsa State Government are getting worse by the day, crippling economic activities in the areas, as the people can no longer go to major markets, farms or engage in other economic activities to boost their sources of income and livelihood, thereby leading to the loss of millions of Naira daily;

Also worried that the current state of the roads will not have the capacity to withstand the impact of the impending flood as predicted by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) in its 2023 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP);

Cognizant that if nothing is not done to urgently address this menace, the indigenes and residents of Bayelsa State who already feel a deep sense of dejection would be cut off from the rest of the country through the East–west Road;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Ministry of Niger Delta to, immediately commence concrete rehabilitation work on the affected sites and also construct bridges to aid in the control of erosion;

(ii) mandate the Committees on Niger Delta Ministry and Environment to visit he various sites to, assess the state of the roads and make further recommendations within three weeks of being so constituted.

Debate:

Hon. Ofrji Oboku moved the motion on the need to re-construct abandoned portions of the East – West road connecting major communities in Bayelsa state and it was seconded by Hon. Jesse Okey. Hon. Ojema Ojotu proposed an amendment calling on the Ministry of Works to handle the rehabilitation. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Niger Delta Ministry, Environment as well as that on Works.

7. Unlawful Road Blockage, Extortion and Harassment by Security Personnel on Lagos Agbara Badagry–Seme Highway.

Hon. Whingan Sesi Oluwaseun:

The House:

Notes the Report of the Punch Newspapers of November 2022 that there are over 100 roadblocks on the Lagos Agbara-Badagry-Seme Expressway, spanning approximately 46.2 kilometers;

Also notes that the roadblocks and checkpoints were originally intended to curb smuggling activities and provide security along the expressway and around the Seme Border;

Worried that security agents have been subjecting unsuspecting members of the public to traumatic experiences in their attempts to extort their hard-earned money;

Aware of orders by the leaders of the various law enforcement agencies in Badagry to remove all Illegal checkpoints mounted on the road but unfortunately, the orders have not been effectively implemented;

Concerned that the military’s harassment and extortion along the Lagos Agbam-Badagry-Seme route will discourage tourists from visiting the area, which is a well-known tourist destination;

Also aware of instances where law enforcement agencies assaulting, harassing and in some cases, brutally killing residents of Badagry which may degenerate in conflict between uniformed men and residents, if these legalities continue;

Resolved to:

(i) urge the Nigeria Customs Service to beef up security on the Lagos Agbara Badagry–Seme Highway and ensure implementation of laws, circulars, and guidelines for mounting checkpoints to ensure the removal of Illegal roadblocks and prevent the unlawful mounting of new checkpoints;

(ii) mandate the Committees on Customs and Excise, and Armed Force to identify the root causes of Illegal checkpoints in border communities and profer solution to the illegal actibvities of the security agencies;

(iii) also mandate the Committee on Legislative implementation;

Debate:

Hon. Whingan Oluwaseun moved the motion on the unlawful road blockage, extortion and harassment by security personnel on Lagos Agbara Badagry–Seme highway and it was seconded by Hon. Terse Ugbor. Hon. Sada Soli in contributing to the debate stated that when he drove on the road he counted over 100 checkpoints where they collect bribes at each point, this he stated is not reflected on the Benin Republic side. He called for an amendment to incorporate all border communities nationwide in the prayers of the motion. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Army as well as that on Customs and Excise for further legislative action.

8. Examining the Administration of Nigeria’s Pension Fund Assets.

Hon. Aliyu Bappa Misau:

The House:

Notes that Retirement Saving Accounts (RSAs) are the lifeline that pensioners rely upon to cater to their needs upon retirement;

Concerned that most pensioners are unable to access their retirement funds despite complying with the requirements of the contributory pension scheme, and neither the National Pension Commission (PenCom) nor the Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) have been able to reassure them of prompt payment of their entitlements;

Aware that the pension fund assets which PenCom regulates, being the proceeds of the contributory pension scheme and returns on investment, stood at more than 15,500,000,000,000.00 (Fifteen Trillion, Five Hundred Billion Naira) as at the close of the first quarter of 2023, hence there is no justification for retirees not to have access to their RSA;

Worried that critical stakeholders have expressed concern that 65% of the pension funds (N100 Trillion Naira) loaned to the Federal Government is an investment which exposes the contributors to unnecessary volatility as the Federal Government may fail to pay back the loan in due time;

Also worried that being unable to access their pension has caused untold hardship to the retirees as they are unable to afford even basic necessities;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the National Pension Commission (PenCom) to ensure the immediate release of funds for the payment of pension funds to all retirees;

(ii) mandate the Committee on Pensions to:
(a) investigate the status of the pension fund assets of over N15,500,000,000,000.00 (Fifteen Trillion, Five Hundred Billion Naira) with a view to ensuring that the N100 trillion Naira loaned to the Federal Government from pension funds is duly recovered and modalities are put in place to hinder a collapse of the pension scheme; and

(b) scrutinize the failure of Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) in fulfilling its obligations to retirees as regards access to their retirement savings.

Debate:

Hon. Aliyu Misau moved the motion on the need to examine the administration of Nigeria’s Pension Fund Assets and it was seconded by Hon. Modibo Musa. Hon. Jessey Okey proposed an amendment to investigate the status of the funds assets with a view to recovering all missing funds. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House committee on Pensions.

9. Need to Restore Electricity Supply to Affected Communities in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area of Ogun State.

Hon. Joseph Folorunsho. Adegbesan:

The House:

Notes that one of the major agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is to generate, transmit, and distribute sufficient, affordable electricity to the people of Nigeria in order to enlighten their lives, homes and their very dream;

Also notes that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed the Electricity, Act into law the 9 as part of the fulfilment of his campaign promises to improve electricity access to the rural, unserved underserved, per-urban and urban areas;

Aware that electricity is one of the fundamental dividends of democracy and the aim of sustainable development goals is to thrive economy of a nation for the betterment of her citizens;

Also aware that Nigerians and Industries have been suffering with the epileptic electricity supply and total power outage;

Concerned that among such Nigerians with power outages are the people of some communities in the Ogun Waterside local government area of Ogun state (lbiade, Iwopm, Ayila, Abigi, Efire, llusin, Ayede, Olojumeta, Lomiro, Imakun Orni, Ode Orni, Oni, lukogbe, Igele, Irokun and others);

Worried that the communities have been in total blackout for almost two (2) decades and nothing has been done as intervention by the government for the people of these communities;

Resolves to:

mandate the Committee on Power to investigate the matter and direct the National Rural Electrification Agency (NREA) to restore the communities to the National grid, ensure strict compliance and report back within four (4) weeks.

Debate:

Hon. Joseph Adegbesan moved the motion on the need to restore electricity supply to affected communities in Ogun Waterside local government area of Ogun State, and it was seconded by Hon. Aliyu Aminu. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Power.

10. Reconstruction of the Calabar Oba–Ekan International Road leading to the Republic of Cameroon.

Hon. Emil Inyang​​ Hon. Victor Bisong Abang ​​Hon. Alex Egbona​
Hon. Bassey Akiba ​​Hon. Joseph Bassey​​​ Hon. Mike Etaba
Hon. Godwin Offiono​​nHon. Peter Akpanke:

The House:

Notes that Section 14 (20(b) Chapter II of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) provides that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of the Government;

Also notes that on 10 October 2002, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled that the proprietorship of the Bakassi peninsula belongs to Cameroon, due to an agreement between the governments of Nigeria and Cameroon during the civil war, the economic impact of that ruling is still being felt today;

Acknowledged that Cross River State is an Agrarian State, producing cocoa, banana, plantain, palm produce, yam, cassava, rice, coco-yam, maize, robber, and groundnut among other cash crops;

Aware that having a military base along the Calabar-Oban Ekan international road leading to the Republic of Cameroon with no good road, collapsed bridge, or wooden coverts to retreat in case of emergency is an embarrassment to the Nigeria government;

Recognise the economic implication of agricultural produces that always go to waste, the Lafarg cement factory located in the same area and other business that are losing money due to the terrible nature of the road has cost Cross River and the Federal Government of Nigeria a huge economic lost;

Also recognise the importance of migration and its consequences, especially for the promotion of regional integration and economic cooperation in Africa;

Determined to overcome the challenges of security of life and properties, the security of the military personnel, the threat to national security, issues regarding irregular migration, human trafficking, migrant smuggling, and related issues;

Resolves to:

(i) Urge the Ministry of Works to make provision for Reconstruction of the Calabar Oba–Ekan International Road in the 2024 budget estimates; and

(ii) mandate the Committee on Works to ensure compliance.

Debate:

Hon. Bassey Akiba moved the motion on the need for the reconstruction of the Calabar Oba–Ekan international road leading to the Republic of Cameroon, and it was seconded by Hon. Umar Yusuf. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Works.

11. Call to Investigate the Abandonment of Rehabilitation Work on the Umuahia–Ikwuano–Ikot Ekpene Expressway.

Hon. Obi Aguocha:

The House:

Notes that Umuahia -Ikwuano-Ikot Ekpene road is a major highway linking the South-East to the South-South states of Akwa Ibom, Cross River, and down to Cameroon;

Also notes that the Umuahia-Ikwuano-Ikot Ekpene road axis poor road network has halted Socio-economic activities in the Southeast geo-political zone;

Aware of the economic significance of the roads to the abutting states of the Southeast, South-South, Western and Northern States of the Federation for the movement of essential goods and services;

Also aware that the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing in 2019 awarded the contract for the rehabilitation of Umuahia-Ikwuano-Ikot Ekpene road to Messrs. Hartland Company Ltd, howbeit, no meaningful milestones have been achieved;

Worried that effort by patriotic stakeholders in Ikwuano LGA to ascertain the real cause of the delay has proved abortive as both the Federal Ministry of Works and the Nigerian national Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) (funding agency) have not been forthcoming;

Convinced that the rehabilitation of the Umuahia-Ikwuano-Ikot Ekpene Expressway will bring relief to millions of commuters and propel the economic development of the country;

Resolves to:

(i) mandate the Committee on Works to investigate and determine cause of abandonment of the Umuahia-Ikwuano-Ikot Ekpene Expressway and unattended to for almost the lifespan of the contract, provide a permanent and sustainable solution and report back within 2 weeks for further legislative action; and

(ii) also mandate the Committee on Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance.

Debate:

Hon. Obi Aguocha moved the motion on the call to investigate the abandonment of rehabilitation work on the Umuahia–Ikwuano–Ikot Ekpene expressway, and it was seconded by Hon. Bitrus Laori. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Works as well as that on Legislative Compliance.

12. Call on the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to cover Vulnerable Nigerians.

Hon. Bashiru Ayinla Dawodu:

The House:

Notes that social economic development is not achievable without access to quality and affordable health care;

Also notes that the World Health Assembly in 2005 adopted Universal Health coverage as part of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs) Agenda 2030;

Aware that after 23 years, only 5 Million Nigerians have enrolled in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) while over 70% per cent of Nigerians pay out of pocket for health care;

Worried that over 83 Million vulnerable populations comprising pregnant women, children under five years, persons with special needs, and the elderly are most affected, thus Nigeria is unable to meet the targets of universal coverage, thus increasing the rate of out-of-pocket health expenditure;

Cognizant that the health care crisis cannot be resolved without Universal Health care coverage which cannot be achieved without meeting the target of the National Health Insurance;

Regrets that the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act of 2022 mandates Health Insurance for all citizens and legal residents which has failed;

Concerned that in 2022 NNPC spent ¥.4 Trillion ($9.7B) on fuel subsidy and N3.6 Trillion in 6 months of 2023;

Also concerned that it costs about 5 Billion to cover 5 Million persons annually at the rate of NI 5,000 per person;

Resolves to:
(i) urge the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to allocate part of the Fuel subsidy removal savings to the vulnerable Health fund;

(ii) also urge the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to ensure implementation and monitoring;

(iii) also mandate the Committees on Health Institutions and Finance to ensure compliance.

Motion stepped down by leave of the House.

13. Need for Promissory Notes Programs and Bond Issuance for Settlement of Judgement Debt.

Hon. Lanre Okunlola:

The House:

Notes that Ministries, Departments and Agencies have faced legal claims, leading to judgements which imposed multi-billion dollar liabilities on the nation worldwide;

Concerned that the judgement debts, if not properly managed will have detrimental effects on the nation’s fiscal health, impede its ability to execute critical projects and programs for the growth of the economy and welfare of the people, thus using a promissory notes and bond issuance is a viable solution;

Aware that Promissory notes allow the government to settle debts in instalments over a specified period, providing flexibility in managing financial obligations;

Also aware that the issuance of bonds enables the government to raise capital from investors, which can then be allocated to settle these judgment debts, thereby preventing the depletion of immediate government resources;

Cognizant that by leveraging promissory notes and bond issuance, the nation’s financial stability can be secured, foster confidence in fiscal management and allocate resources more effectively to projects that uplift the lives of citizens;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the relevant government agencies to collaborate with financial experts, legal professionals and stakeholders to develop comprehensive promissory notes and bond issuance strategies for the settlement of judgment debt;

(ii) advocates for oversight and audit mechanisms to ensure the proper utilization of funds raised through promissory notes and bond issuance exclusively for the purpose of debt settlement;

(iii) mandate the Committee on Aids, Loans and Debt Management ensure implementation and report back for further legislative action.

Motion stepped down by leave of the House

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The Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, called for the stepping down of the consideration of reports in the Committee of the Whole due to the fact that he as the Chairman of the Committee of the Whole would have wanted ample notice time to go through the reports, also so that Honourable members can have ample time to go through the reports and make informed contributions in the Committee of the Whole. To this effect, the Chairman of the Committee on Rules and Business, Hon. Francis Waive moved for items 14 and 15 on the Order Paper to be stepped down and it was seconded by the Minority Leader Hon. Kingsley Chinda.

CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS

14. A Bill for an Act to Establish a National Centre for the Coordination and Control of the Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons in Nigeria; and for Related Matters. (HB. 207) (Leader) – Committee of the Whole: 25/7/2023.
15. A Bill for an Act to Amend Federal Medical Centres Act to Establish Federal Medical Centre, Rano Kano State and for Related Matters (HB.91) (Leader) – Committee of the Whole:18/7/2023.

Consideration of reports stepped down by leave of the House.

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Adjournment:

The House at 15:28 PM adjourned plenary to Wednesday, October 4th 2023 by 11:00 A.M, following a motion for adjournment moved by the Minority Leader of the House, Hon. Kingsley Chinda, and seconded by Hon. Francis Waive.

Courtesy: LightRay Media and
Media Unit, Office of the Speaker, House of Representatives.