Plenary proceedings, House of Reps for Wed, Nov 22nd, 2023

After leading the opening prayer and recitation of the national pledge, the Speaker approved the votes and proceedings of Tuesday, November 21st, 2023.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS:

1. Honourable Members of the Southwest caucus are to meet immediately after plenary by 15:00 PM at Meeting Room 301.
2. All Chairmen and Deputy Chairmen of Committees of the House are likely to have a retreat on Wednesday, November 29th, 2023. Further clarifications will be duly communicated.

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PETITION:

1. Hon. Kelechi Nwogu laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against a subsidiary of Exonmobil Oil Ltd. on the alleged non payment of compensation of oil spillage in their community.

The petition was referred to the House committee on Public Petitions.

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MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE:

1. Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi moved a motion on the urgent need to address escalating kidnappings and killing of the kidnapped victims within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and it was seconded by Hon. Salisu Yusuf.

Hon. Ezechi in leading the debate noted the sad and untimely death of Barrister Chris Agidi, who was a senior legislative aide to a National Assembly legislator at the hands of kidnappers is one too many of such incidents that are worrisome, regrettable and should be avoided at all costs. He pointed to the escalating trend of insecurity of lives within the FCT. He then expressed concern over the seeming lack of safety of Nigerians within the FCT. Hon. Ezechi called on the security agencies within the FCT to continue tackling these bandits and kidnappers.

He called on the relevant security agencies to intensify efforts in ensuring the lives and properties of Nigerians within the FCT is assured, and that the relevant Committees of the House should ensure compliance. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on the Federal Capital Territory, National Security and Intelligence as well as that on Ploice Affairs.

2. Hon. Femi Bamisile moved a motion on the need to look into the freezing of the Naira and FX accounts of some Zenith bank customers over the transfer of USD from their personal bank accounts and it was seconded by Hon. Ngozi Okolie.

Hon. Bamisile stated that there was no pre-information or law that it was illegal to transfer USD from the personal accounts of the customers using the bank application and wondered why the affected customers were being penalized. He stated that the affected customers were subjected to gruesome treatment for what they did not even know was illegal. He called on the House Committee on Banking Regulations to look into the matter and recommend due compensation if found to be in place to do so.

Hon. Abubakar Yalleman proposed an amendment to incorporate the House Committee on Digital Banking into the prayer of the motion as the transactions occurred using the Zenith bank app (digital/electronic banking) and not physically over the counter. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committee on Digital Banking.

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PRESENTATION OF BILLS:

1.​Stamp Duties Act (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2023 (HB.937) (Hon. Jeremiah Umaru) – First Reading.

2.​Chartered Institute of Outsourcing and Management of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.938) (Hon. Jeremiah Umaru) – First Reading.

3.​Federal Highways Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.939) (Hon. Sada Soli) – First Reading.

4.​Family Economic Advancement Programme Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.940) (Hon. Sada Soli) – First Reading.

5.​Non-Governmental and Civil Society Organisations Agency (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.941) (Hon. Sada Soli) – First Reading.

6.​Control of Usage of Artificial Intelligence Technology in Nigeria Bill, 2023 (HB.942) (Hon. Sada Soli) – First Reading.

7.​Central Bank of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.943) (Hon. Sada Soli) – First Reading.

8.​Child Rights Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.944) (Hon. Sada Soli) – First Reading.

9.​Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.945) (Hon. Sada Soli) – First Reading.

10.​Federal College of Dental and Therapy Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.946) (Hon. Benjamin Kalu and six others) – First Reading.

11.​Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.947) (Hon. Akintunde Rotimi) – First Reading.

12.​National Football Academy, Jega, Kebbi State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.948) (Hon. Mansur Musa) – First Reading.

13.​Federal College of Health Technology, Jega, Kebbi State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.949) (Hon. Mansur Musa) – First Reading.

14.​National Vegetable and Fruits Processing and Storage Centre, Aleiro, Kebbi State (Establishment) 2023 (HB.950) (Hon. Mansur Musa) – First Reading.

15.​National Orthopedic Centre, Gwandu, Kebbi State (Estblishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.951) (Hon. Mansur Musa) – First Reading.

16.​Federal College of Entrepreneurship and Skills Acquisition Centre, Gwandu, Kebbi State (Establishment) Bill, 2023. (HB.952) (Hon. Mansur Musa) – First Reading.

17.​Federal Colleges of Education Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.953) (Hon. Ahmed Adamu Saba) – First Reading.

18.​Federal College of Nursing and Midwifery, Shonga, Kwara State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.954) (Hon. Ahmed Adamu Saba) – First Reading.

19.​Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.955) (Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi) – First Reading.

20.​Nigerian Communications Commission Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.956) (Hon. Unyime Josiah Idem) – First Reading.

21.​Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.957) (Hon. Unyime Josiah Idem) – First Reading.

22.​Genocide Commission of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.958) (Hon. Ngozi Okolie) – First Reading.

23.​Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.959) (Hon. Sulaiman Abubakar Gumi) – First Reading.

24.​Federal College of Health Sciences and Technology, Gumi, Zamfara State (Establishment) Bill, 2023. (HB.960 (Hon. Sulaiman Abubakar Gumi) – First Reading.

25.​Federal Colleges of Education Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.961) (Hon. Ukodhiko Ajirioghene Jonathan) – First Reading.

26.​University Teaching Hospital (Reconstruction of Board, etc.) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023 (HB.962) (Hon. Ukodihiko Ajirioghene Jonathan) – First Reading.

27.​Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 Act (Alteration) Bill, 2023 (HB.963) (Hon. Mansur Manu Soro) – First Reading.

28.​Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 Act (Alteration) Bill 2023 (HB.964) (Hon. Mansur Manu Soro) – First Reading.

29.​Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 Act (Alteration) Bill 2023 (HB.965) (Hon. Mansur Manu Soro) – First Reading.

30.​National Metallurgical Training Institute, Onitsha (Establishment) Bill, 2023. (HB.966) (Hon. Emeka Idu) – First Reading.

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PRESENTATION OF REPORT:

Ad–hoc Committee to Investigate the Gruesome Murder of Some Nigerians by Soldiers in Enugu:

Hon. Abdulrahman Sanni Egidi:

“That the House do receive the Report of the Ad–hoc Committee to Investigate the Gruesome Murder of Some Nigerians by Soldiers in Enugu” (Referred: 19/7/2023).

The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Sanni Abdulrahman and seconded by Hon. Jaafaru Yakubu.

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ORDERS OF THE DAY:

BILLS:

1. A Bill for an Act to make Provision for Landscape Architects Registration Council of Nigeria charged with the Registration and Regulation of Landscape Architects in Nigeria and for Related Matters (HB. 695) (Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu and Six Others) – Second Reading.

Second reading of the bill stepped down by leave of the House.

2. A Bill for an Act to Establish Institute of Debt Recovery Practitioners of Nigeria, to Train, Regulate, License and Exercise Control over the Occupation of Collection and Recovery of Debt, Levies, Fees or Remuneration by Registered Debt Collectors and for Related Matters (HB. 96) (Hon. Timehin Adelegbe) – Second Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Timehin Adelegbe moved for the second reading of the bill and it was seconded by Hon. Garba Mohammed. Hon. Adelegbe in leading the debate stated that the bill seeks the establishment of the council and its composition/responsibilities for the administration of legal and orderly recovery of debts in Nigeria. This he stated is to ensure the practice is not abused and bastardised in contravention of laws aimed at protecting the fundamental human rights of both lenders and borrowers.

Hon. Bello Ambarura in contributing to the debate observed that there are enough agencies of government saddled with the responsibility of debt collection and he sees no reason to create a special council for this.

Hon. Obordor Mitema also reiterated that there are existing Laws that cover the area of loans and debt recovery. He expressed worry on the conflict, proliferation and duplication of functions of such agencies, plus the financial implications of creating a new Council for this purpose.

Hon. Adelegbe in exercising his right of reply reminded Honourable Members that the proposed Council will not be a government agency and will have no financial implication on government. It is proposed to be a Council of practitioners already within the practice working together for the good of the sector. The bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Commerce.

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MOTIONS:

3. Rescission on the Nigerian Peace Corps (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HBs 309 and 482).

Hon. Francis E. Waive:

The House:

Notes that the Nigerian Peace Corps (Establishment) Bill, 2023 was read the Third time and passed on Thursday 12 October, 2023;

Also notes that after the passage of the Bill, new facts emerged that will strengthen the functions and the operational structure of the corps;

Appreciates the need to rescind its decision on the Bill and recommit it to the Committee of the Whole for reconsideration.

Resolves to:

Re-commit the Bill to the Committee of the Whole.

Debate:

Hon. Francis Waive moved the motion on the rescission on the Nigerian Peace Corps (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HBs 309 and 482) and it was seconded by Hon. Solomon Bob. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the committee of the Whole.

4. Reconnection of Electricity Supply to Shinkafi/Zurmi Federal Consistency of Zamfara State by the Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company:

Hon. Bello Hassan Shinkafi:

The House:

Notes that the provision of roads, water, electricity and other social economic activities are fundamental responsibilities of any Government be it at the Local, State or Federal Level;

Also notes that their responsibilities include education, security and all physical infrastructure and facilities that must be available to all parts of the Federation to harness economic potentials and increase the prosperity of the people and that of the Nation;

Aware that the Electricity Transmission and Distribution Companies are expected to provide infrastructural facilities as well as integrate all parts of Nigeria including Shinkafi/Zurmi Federal Constituency to the National Grid for an effective electricity supply network through functional sun-stations, transformers and other electrical appliances;

Observes that in the last seven years, the people of Shinkafi/Zurmi Federal Constituency have been off the National Electricity Grid and have not witnessed or experienced electricity supply, thereby living in perpetual darkness, discomfort and lack of means to ease economic productivity;

Also observes that the economic activities of the people and by extension their livelihood and prosperity have been continuously hampered in the last seven years whose eventual impact is progressively pushing them down the poverty ladder;

Worried that due to the high rate of insecurity in Zamfara State and Shinkafi/Zurmi Constituency specifically, the absence of electricity supply from the National Grid will continue to impact negatively on the social and economic lives of the people;

Concerned that the absence of electricity supply in the Constituency alienated them which made the people perceive that they have been neglected and marginalised by the Federal Government, thereby creating disillusion and restiveness among the people. This negates the Principles of Governance as enshrined in Chapter II of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended);

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Ministry of Power to direct the Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company responsible for Zamfara State to restore electricity in the Constituency; and

(ii) mandate the Committee on Power to investigate the persistent absence of Power supply and liaise with the appropriate Ministries, Departments Agencies and Regulatory Authority to facilitate economic activities and improve the quality of livelihood of the people of the area.

Motion stepped down by leave of the House.

5. Need for the Federal Civil Service to Establish Independent Health Maintenance Organisation (HMO):

Hon. Adedayo Adesola Samuel:

The House:

Notes that the National Health Insurance Scheme Act, 2004 was repealed and established the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) in 2022, to serve as a regulatory body for health insurance schemes;

Also notes that Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) are mandated to act as intermediaries between hospitals and healthcare providers, operating under the regulatory authority of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA);

Aware that the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) manages the premium contributions of federal civil servants, acting as both the health maintenance organization (HMO) and the insurance provider;

Observes that the Federal Civil Service is the only federal institution without its own Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), unlike other federal institutions like the Nigerian Armed Forces, Police, Customs, and Immigration;

Concerned that the current arrangement causes federal civil servants to lose their coverage upon retirement despite their career-long premium contributions;

Also concerned that the contributions of federal civil servants have been a major source of distraction to the regulatory and universal health coverage responsibilities of the NHIA;

Worried that the NHIA’s regulation and implementation of health insurance schemes for federal civil servants have not prioritized their health, particularly post-retirement;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to focus on enhancing its regulatory capacity, while the Federal Civil Service should be tasked with creating its independent HMO;

(ii) also urge the Head of Service of the Federation to initiate the process of establishing an independent Health Management Organization (HMO) that meets National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) accreditation requirements; and

(iii) mandate the Committees on Healthcare Services, Public Service Matters and Labour, Employment and Productivity to ensure compliance

Motion stepped down by leave of the House.

6. Call to Investigate Revenue Leakages and Non–remittance of Revenues Generated through the Remita Platform:

Hon. Jeremiah Umaru​​​​​ Hon. Jafaru Gambo:

The House:

Notes that Nigeria is not experiencing an expenditure issue but rather a revenue issue;

Also notes that Remita is a software cum financial service platform owned by System-Specs which is a Private Company in charge of managing Government Revenues, it has served as a gateway for the Treasury Single Account of the Federal government since 2012 though fully adopted in 2015 and used in the collection of Government Revenues over the years;

Aware that over 8.7 trillion naira had been processed through the platform before the deployment of the software, the Nigerian government had over 15,000 Bank Accounts operated by Ministries, Departments and agencies (MDAs), the proliferation of accounts has moved from deposit money banks to Central Bank of Nigeria allowing MDAs to create multiple sub-accounts thereby negating the TSA Policy of the Federal Government;

Cognizant that the TSA system has created a cashless economy, transparency and effective tracking of cash assets with attendant accountability. It has not indeed fully blocked leakages and abuses by the proliferation of CBN Sub-Accounts.

Also aware that 1% of the funds collected is charged as commission for making use of the platform and shared among SystemSpecs (owner), Deposit Money Banks(processor) and Central Bank of Nigeria (License issuer) in the ratio of 50:40:10 respectively. This is alarming and unacceptable;

Worried that despite the benefits and reasons for on-boarding the Remita Platform, the rate of revenue leakages is worrisome apart from non-compliance substantively with Standard Operating Procedures and other allied Service Level Agreements signed by parties;

Disturbed that if this scenario continues unabated, the government will continue to experience a revenue shortfall and this will prevent the government from meeting the rising demand for good governance and infrastructural development from citizens;

Concerned that a larger percentage of deposit money banks has formed the habit of delay in on-ward remittance or sweeping of revenues collected to Central Bank of Nigeria;

Resolves to:

mandate the Committee on Public Accounts to investigate revenue leakages through the Remita Platform and non-compliance substantively with Standard Operating Procedures and other allied Service Level Agreements signed among Deposit Money Banks, Office of The Accountant General, Systemspec, Nigeria Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS) and the Central Bank of Nigeria and report back within 6 weeks for further legislative action.

Debate:

Hon. Jeremiah Umaru moved the motion on the call to investigate revenue leakages and non-remittance of revenues generated through the Remita Platform and it was seconded by Hon. Kabiru Maipalace. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Public Accounts which is given 4 weeks for the investigation.

7. Need to Control Ibeoma–Ekewe Gully Erosion in Nkwerre/Isu/Nwangele/Njaba Federal Constituency:

Hon. Ugonna Ozurigbo:

The House:

Notes that gully erosions in Nigeria have significantly impacted buildings, farmlands, livelihoods, and access roads, causing significant loss of developmental infrastructure and significant damage to communities;

Aware that the Ibeoma-Ekwe Community in Nkwerre/ Isu/Nwangele/Njaba Federal Constituency of Imo State is experiencing catastrophic gully erosion, causing massive gullies from Obora, Umudimoha, Ahunike, Mbazu to Ibeoma-Ekwe, destroying access roads, and posing grave danger, as highlighted in a recent Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) visit and documentary;

Also aware that the lbeoma-Ekwe gully erosion is primarily caused by rainwater flow from Amaigbo, Amauju, and Isunjaba communities, which can be reversed with careful management to prevent potential quakes;

Concerned that farmers in the community face challenges in accessing markets due to gully erosion, which has washed away farmlands and destroyed roads. This ongoing problem will continue, causing continued suffering, fatalities and spreading to other areas;

Recognises that urgent control of gully erosion in Ibeoma-Ekwe and Nkwerre/Isu/Nwangele/Njaba Federal Constituency will alleviate fear, anxiety, danger, and trauma for families and communities affected by the erosion;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Ecological Fund Office under the Secretary to Government of the Federation to immediately commence the control of Ibeoma-Ekwe gully erosion at Nkwerre/lsu/Nwangele/Njaba Federal Constituency;

(ii) also urge the Federal Ministries of Finance, and Budget and National Planning to release funds for the control of Ibeoma-Ekwe gully erosion in Nkwerre/Isu/Nwangele/Njaba Federal Constituency; and

(iii) mandate the Committees on Ecological Funds and Finance to ensure compliance.

Debate:

Hon. Ugonna Ozurigbo moved the motion on the need to control Ibeoma–Ekewe gully erosion in Nkwerre/Isu/Nwangele/Njaba Federal Constituency and it was seconded by Hon. Bello Hassan. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Ecological Fund as well as that on Finance.

8. Need to Construct Pedestrian Bridges Along Lagos –Ibadan Expressway:

Hon. Tolulope Akande-Sadipe:

The House:

Notes that Nigeria’s population growth and economic development require improved transport infrastructure which can only be achieved through investments in roads, railways, aviation, shipping, and inland waterways;

Aware that in 1960, Ibadan, Oyo State was known as the largest city in West Africa and by 2022 United Nations data the third largest city in the world. The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway goes through two of the most highly populated sections of the city;

Observes that there is an unavoidable need to cross the highway to access schools, homes, workplaces and markets, this undervalues the safety of pedestrians and drivers as there is a daily high rate of fatal accidents recorded, hence there is an urgent need for the construction of pedestrian bridges, which is currently non-existent;

Concerned that the ongoing construction of the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, despite safety implications and ongoing advocacy, pedestrian bridges have been neglected by stakeholders and the Lagos/Ibadan expressway has become a death trap;

Cognizant that the Lagos/Ibadan expressway is a Trunk ‘A’, and requires pedestrian bridges at the following locations:

(i) Technical University;
(ii) Toll Gate, Ibadan;
(iii) Félele, Ibadan;
(iv) Sóka, Ibadan;
(v) Sanyo, İbadan;
(vi) Bólúwaji, Ibadan;
(vii) Academy;
(viii) Eléruku, Ibadan;
(ix) Two Bridges between Muslim and Olohun-Sògo, Ibadan;
(x) Two Bridges between Olohun-Sogo and Oré-Méji Bridges;
(x) Three Bridges between Oré-Méji and Iwo Road;
(xii) Three Bridges between Iwo Road and General Gas’ bridge; and
(xiii) Five Bridges between General Gas and Ojóo.

Cognizant of the need to construct pedestrian bridges along the expressway to save lives, reduce the sufferings of commuters, particularly school children and maintain the economic viability of these highly populated areas;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Works to make provision for the Construction of pedestrian bridges in the locations mentioned above in the 2024 budget estimates; and

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

Debate:

Hon. Tolulope Sadipe moved the motion on the need to construct pedestrian bridges along Lagos–Ibadan expressway and it was seconded by Hon. Jonathan Gbwefi. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Works.

9. Call on Nigerian Correctional Service to Account for Inmates that Escaped from Kuje Custodial Facility:

Hon. Emmanuel Ukpong–Udo:

The House:

Notes that on July 5, 2022, a jailbreak in Abuja’s Kuje Medium Custodial Facility resulted in 879 inmates, including 64 Boko Haram terrorists, fleeing, with 422 remaining unrecovered or recaptured by security agencies;

Aware that the Nigeria Correctional Service requires a comprehensive report on inmate incidents and methods to trace inmates and perpetrators, utilizing its database;

Concerned that the presence of law-abiding citizens among 350 escapees with diverse offences poses a security risk as daily crimes are recorded without any trace of perpetrators,

Disturbed that after a year, the escapees are thriving in different communities, blending in and potentially continuing their criminal activities unnoticed, necessitating the urgent need to have reasonable measures in place to track and apprehend these individuals.

Resolves to:

mandate the Committees on Reformatory Institutions, Interior, and Police Affairs to synergize with the heads of the relevant security agencies for a holistic report on the status of the escaped inmates and report back within six (6) weeks for further legislative action.

Debate:

Hon. Emmanuel Udo moved the motion on the need to call on the Nigerian Correctional Service to account for inmates that escaped from the Kuje Custodial Facility, and it was seconded by Hon. Bello Kaoje who also sighted that a similar motion had been brought before the 9th House of Representatives and a report had been laid before the House. In this light it was recommended that the Committees the motion is to be referred to should work on the adoption of the former report. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Reformatory Institutions, Interior as well as that on Police Affairs.

10. Need to Control Flooding along Galma Dam in Kubau Local Government Area of Kaduna State:

Hon. Aliyu Mustapha Abdullahi:

The House:

Notes that in 2013, the Galma River was dredged to enhance the outflow of water to the Galma Multipurpose Dam, at 35% completion of the Dam, a flood occurred submerging five villages in

Kubau Local Government Area, namely Ruwansanyi, Gajagaja, Masoba, Danhayi and Kurama, causing significant damages and losses;

Also notes that in 2016, at 100% completion of phase I of the dam, the river overflowed its banks again, took over farmlands and major access roads linking communities with Anchau, by Yadi Junction along Jos road;

Concerned that a journey meant for about 10 minutes across the river now takes two hours to get to Anchau, the commercial town in the area, this has brought extreme hardship to residents in accessing healthcare centres and markets, as well as travellers from different States including Plateau, Kano;

Worried that during challenging times, many residents have been forced to seek alternative livelihoods due to their inability to cultivate their farmlands;

Also worried that most of the areas are low land, meaning that if appropriate measures are not taken, these areas are prone to flooding at any time, which can cause severe loss of life and destruction of houses, farmlands and farm produce;

Aware that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved N16.5 billion for the augmentation of phase II of Galma Dam in 2017, which involves irrigation and additional structure that will control flooding and contribute to the overall economic development of the region, but work has yet to commence.

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Water Resources to expedite the construction of irrigation canals to redirect excess water from the dam to prevent overflowing and further damage to farmlands and road networks;

(ii) also urge the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to allocate funds in the 2024 budget estimates for the rehabilitation of access roads to link the affected communities to ease the problem of transportation;

(iii) mandate the Committees on Water Resources, FERMA and Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance.

Debate:

Hon. Aliyu Abdullahi moved the motion on the need to control flooding along Galma Dam in Kubau local government area of Kaduna State and it was seconded by Hon. Taopheek Ajilesoro. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Water Resources, Federal Road Maintenance Agency, as well as that on Legislative Compliance.

11. Need to Investigate the Implementation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by Multinational Oil Companies and Other Corporate Bodies in the South-South Zone:

Hon. Billy F. Osawaru:

The House:

Notes that the South-South Zone is predominantly farmers and fishermen, primarily trading seafood such as fish/ shrimps, oysters, snails, crabs, and periwinkles, they rely on water bodies and forest vegetation for their livelihood;

Aware that the South-South zone of Nigeria is host to Multinational Oil Companies and other corporate bodies with different packages of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) due to its huge natural resource reserve, particularly of oil and gas;

Also aware that the CSR packages are intended to address the social economic and environmental concerns of the host communities, as oil companies’ operations have led to land degradation, pollution, poor agricultural output, water depletion, and health issues.;

Worried that the multinational oil companies and other corporate bodies operating in the zone create an impression of compliance with social responsibility and development rules by the release of funds from a charitable view for the execution of some social development projects/programs as against the provisions of Petroleum Industry Act, 2021particularly (Chapter 3 Section 234-240 (2)), but these projects/programs do not in any way address the wellbeing and livelihood needs of the people;

Concerned that the zone’s environmental degradation, insecurity, poverty, and unemployment are largely due to the failure of CSR implementation due to corruption and the charitable approach of Oil Companies;

Resolves to:

(i) mandate the Committees on Corporate Social Responsibility and Niger Delta Development Commission to liaise with the Ministry of Petroleum Resources to ensure that Multinational Oil Companies in the South-South zone comply with relevant sections of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021 particularly (Chapter 3 Section 234-240 (2); and

(ii) also mandate the Committees on Corporate Social Responsibility, Niger Delta Development Commission and Host Communities to investigate the activities of Multinational Oil Companies and other corporate bodies on the implementation of Corporate Social Responsibility to the Host Communities and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.

Debate:

Hon. Billy Osawaru moved the motion on the need to investigate the implementation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by Multinational Oil Companies and other corporate bodies in the South-South zone and it was seconded by Hon. Adamu Babalanga. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Corporate Social Responsibility, Niger Delta Development Commission, as well as that on Host Communities.

12. Need to Expedite Action on Completion of the Ogbomosho Power Station:

Hon. Olamijuwonlo Ayodeji Alao Akala:

The House:

Notes that modern societies rely on energy, particularly electricity for economic growth. Disruptions in power distribution can hamper vital services like healthcare and livelihoods, impacting immediate community activities and posing risks;

Also notes Ogbomosho town, a significant economic hub in southwest Nigeria, has a population of about 1.7 million residents and significantly contributes to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP);

Concerned that the federal government initiated a 13-year project to light up communities in Ogbomosho with a 2 x 60 MVA, 132/33 KVA substation, however, the transmission station project has lingered over the years with no completion in sight;

Aware that the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), an agency under the Ministry of Power, is responsible for providing essential transmission infrastructure between Gencos and Discos Feeder Sub-stations;

Recognises that the project is highly recommended as it will boost economic growth, national development, and effective financial management;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Ministry of Power and its agencies to prioritize periodic transformer maintenance, refurbish older units, and focus on corrective maintenance to extend the lifespan of transmission resources;

(ii) also urge the Ministry of Power to include the completion of the project in the 2024 budget estimates; and

(iii) mandate the Committee on Power to investigate the circumstances surrounding the delay in the project and report back within six (60 weeks further legislative action.

Debate:

Hon. Ayodeji Alao Akala moved the motion on the need to expedite action on the completion of the Ogbomosho power station and it was seconded by Hon. Ahmed Barau. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Power.

13. Need to Suspend the Increment of DSTV/GOTV Packages by the Multichoice Group:

Hon. Umar Shehu Ajilo:

The House:

Notes the incessant rise in the cost of living occasioned by the constant hike in prices of goods and services, dwindling incomes and loss of small and medium businesses in the country;

Also notes the prevailing economic hardship resulting from political to economic factors that have made life unbearable to the common man, with far-reaching effects that are yet to be addressed;

Worried at the exorbitant increase in DSTV/GOTV package tariffs from N24,500- N29,500 and N16,600 -N19,800 for the Premium and Compact Plus packages respectively, at this challenging period;

Further notes exacerbate the sufferings of Nigerians given the increasing pressure on household budgets, rising cost of basic living essentials, income stagnation and others;

Worried that this unacceptable and arbitrary increment by MultiChoice Nigeria represents the second price hike within the last 6 months, the first being 1 May 2023 and the second on 6 November 2023 coming amid the prevailing economic hardship and excruciating poverty in the country;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy to intervene. Halt and reverse the increase in Dstv/Gotv tariff by the Multi-choice Group; and

(ii) mandate the Committee on Communications to interface with Multi-choice Groups to address regiment increase in tariff.

Debate:

Hon. Umar Ajilo moved the motion on the need to suspend the increment of DSTV/GOTV packages by the Multichoice Group and it was seconded by Hon. Jaafaru Leko. Hon. Gaza Gbwefi proposed an amendment to incorporate the House Committee on Information and National Orientation to the subject matter and that the National Broadcasting Commission should dialogue with the Multichoice group to review these price hikes.

Hon. Sada Soli stressed that the House has every right to regulate and legislate on the activities of DSTV as it operates under the laws of Nigeria. He noted that DSTV has continued to arbitrarily increase charges constantly without due regulations. He called for Nigeria not to be taken for granted as this is not what transpires in the other countries of the Southern African Region.

The Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen stressed the need for local competition to come up with much better and preferably indigenous alternatives in the Cable Tv sector in terms of services and pricing. This he stated will defeat a single company’s monopoly and the citizenry’s over dependence on such. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committee on Information, as well as that National Orientation.

14. Need to Recover Decades of Unpaid 10% Freight Levies Due to Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) from Nigerian Maritime Authority (NIMASA):

Hon. Aliyu Bappa Misau:

The House:

Notes that the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) is the central institution of the Federal Government of Nigeria responsible for promoting, developing, and diversifying exports.;

Also notes that NEPC amended Decree (1992 No. 64.] connotes that the Council shall establish and maintain a fund which shall be applied towards the attainment of the Council’s objectives and from which shall be defrayed all expenditure incurred by the Council;

Aware that the amended Decree clearly states that 10 per cent of all levies on freights Collected by the Nigerian Maritime Authority (NIMASA) be paid to NEPC;

Also aware that numerous attempts to recover from NIMASA the colossal amount due to NEPC, an Agency under the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment have proved abortive as numerous documented communications from the Presidency instructing NIMASA to pay up are ignored;

Cognizant of the need for the country to boost her exports to attract both Local and International Investments, stabilize the currency, strengthen manufacturing and mining sectors, and create employment opportunities;

Also cognizant that NIMASA’s refusal to adhere to the laws of the land is tantamount to economic sabotage;

Resolves to:

(i) mandate the Committee on Commerce to investigate and trace the total sum of the backlog accrued over the years and ensure compliance by the Nigerian Maritime Authority (NIMASA) with immediate effect to remit the ten per cent of accrued freight levies to the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and prevent NIMASA from further defying national policy; and

(ii) also mandate Committees on Commerce, Maritime Safety Education and Administration and Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance.

Debate:

Hon. Aliyu Misau moved the motion on the need to recover decades of unpaid 10% freight levies due to Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) from Nigerian Maritime Security and Administration (NIMASA) and it was seconded by Hon. Akin Rotimi. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Commerce, Maritime Safety Education and Administration as well as that on Legislative Compliance.

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CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS:

15. Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of Standing Orders of the House of Representatives:

Hon. Igariwey Enwo:

“That the House do consider the Report of the Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of Standing Orders of the House Representatives and approve recommendations therein” (Adjourned consideration: 7/11/2023).

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Enwo stated that the report is in continuance of what was earlier suspended to accommodate the rescission of an earlier decision of the House on Order 5(3), and propose a new definition of the situation of ‘Emergency’, as well as the mode of meetings in such emergency situations.

Summary of voting:

Recommendations voted on Pages and adopted: Pp. 7-11, 14-17, 21, 22, 25-30, 32-46, 49-50.

Recommendations as amended on Order/Pages and adopted: Order 5 & 20, Pp. 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 31, 47, 48.

16. A Bill for an Act to Repeal the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission Act, Cap. 7, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and Enact the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission Bill, 2023 to grant the Commission Enforcement Powers in the Monitoring of accruals to and Disbursement of Revenue from the Federation Account and to bring the Act in conformity with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic Of Nigeria, 1999; and for Related Matters (HBs.471 &581) (Leader) – Committee of the Whole: 26/10/2023.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Ariyomi Onanuga stated that the bill seeks to empower the Commission to monitor the accruals and disbursement of Federal account funds.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-18.

17. A Bill for an Act to Amend the Public Procurement Act, No. 14, 2007 to Provide for inclusion of the Nigerian Institute of Architects in the Membership of the National Council on Public Procurement, Payment of 30% Mobilisation Fee to Contractors as well as Project Consultants, Promotion of Local Content in Procurement Solicitation; and for Related Matters (HB.419) (Leader) – Committee of the Whole: 27/7/2023.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Ariyomi Onanuga stated that the bill seeks to include the Institute of Architects to be part of membership on public procurement to promote local content in Nigeria.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-7.

18. A Bill for an Act to Amend the Armed Forces Act, Cap. A20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to Foster Collaboration between the Armed Forces and other Security Agencies in the Provision of National Security and Establish Armed Forces Human Rights Unit to Provide a Reporting Channel for Civilians whose Human Rights are Violated by Members of the Armed Forces and for Related Matters (HB.311) – Committee of the Whole: 10/10/2023.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Ariyomi Onanuga stated that the bill seeks to ensure the human rights unit of the Armed Forces saddled with monitoring the enforcement of human right laws during the operations of the Armed Forces is duly empowered.

Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-7.

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HOUSE IN PLENARY:

The House reverted to plenary and adopted the report of the Committee of the Whole following a motion by Hon. Ariyomi Onanuga and seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda.

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Adjournment:

The House at 15:39 PM adjourned plenary to Thursday, November 23rd, 2023 by 11:00 A.M following a motion for adjournment moved by the Deputy Whip of the House, Hon. Oriyomi Onanuga, and seconded by the Minority Leader, Hon. Kingsley Chinda.

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