Plenary proceedings, House of Representatives Tuesday, May 21st, 2024

After leading the opening prayer and recitation of the national pledge, the Speaker approved the votes and proceedings of Thursday, May 16th, 2024.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS:

1. COMMUNICATION FROM THE PRESIDENT:

Submission of the 2024 statutory budget proposal of the Niger Delta Development Commission for consideration and passage by the House of Representatives. The 2024 NDDC statutory budget proposal was prepared in recognition of current economic realities, but in line with the economic recovery growth plan of the federal government. It also seeks to ensure quality education, healthcare delivery, community development, job creation, economic growth of the region and the nation at large. The communication was referred to the House Committee on NDDC for further legislative action.

2. The request from President Bola Tinubu on the Promisory Note of the Federal Government for Kebbi and Nasarawa States for the reimbursement of constructed airports taken over by the Federal Government is referred to the House Committee on Loans and Aids for further legislative action.
3. There will be an emergency meeting with the leaders of all caucuses with the leadership of the House on Wednesday, May 22nd, 2024 at the Conference room of the Deputy Speaker by 3:00 PM.

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PETITION:

1. Hon. Abdullahi Dabai laid a petition on behalf of some complainants on alleged planned trespass on their property. They called for investigation and due compensation in the event of the trespass.

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

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MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE:

1. Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki moved a motion on the need to waive toll gate fees in Nigerian airports for members of the Armed Forces and it was seconded by Hon. Shehu Dalhatu. Hon. Dasuki in leading the debate stressed the need to waive these levies for members of the Armed Forces as a mark of honour for their service and sacrifices for Nigerians. He stated that the levies on members of the Armed Forces in airports where they go to work and protect Nigerian lives is unfair and should be discontinued. Hon. Dasuki called on the Minister of Aviation to direct the relevant Agencies to ensure waiver of such parking levies and toll fees on these members of the Armed Forces and that the House Committee on Aviation should ensure compliance.

Hon. Hussaini Jalo proposed an amendment to include railways, seaports and car parks to the prayer as areas where members of the Armed Forces should be exempted from such levies. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committee on Aviation.

2. Hon. Leke Abejide moved a motion on the urgent need to address the insecurity and incessant attacks against the people of Yagba in Kogi State by unknown gunmen and it was seconded by Hon. Tajudeen Abisodun. Hon. Abejide in leading the debate stated that the unknown gunmen invaded a popular market and abducted a shop owner and her customer. He stated that the citizens and security personnel are not spared from the attacks by these gunmen.

Hon. Abejide stated that these gunmen brandish weapons seemingly more sophisticated than those of the security personnel which they use to unleash terror on civilians. He expressed worry at the seeming inability of the security apparatus to contain the bandits who kill, kidnap, rape and maim innocent civilians with reckless abandon. He expressed worry at the possibility of the break down of law and order as citizens now openly brandish weapons in the bid for self-protection.

Hon. Abejide called on the Federal government to ensure that peace and security comes back to the community by constituting far reaching policies and engagements with people of the region. He also called on the Chief of Defense Staff and the Inspector General of Police to ensure bandits are eradicated from the surrounding forests and ensure that the proliferation of arms discontinues. He also called on the House Committee on Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committees on Defense and that on Police.

3. Hon. Jesse Onuakalusi moved a motion on the dismal state of the Radio and Detection system (RADA) at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport and it was seconded y Hon. David Agada. Hon. Jesse in leading the debate stressed the neeed to maintain high levels of security and safety at Nigerian Airports. He called on security personnel in the airports to be of the highest standard of professionalism and not be nonchalant with their duties. He also expressed worry at the dismal state of some security equipment at Nigerian airports. Hon. Jesse called on the Minister of Aviation and relevant Agencies to conduct a competency audit of all security personnel, contractors and suppliers of equipment and report the result of the audit to the House within 14 days. He called on the House Committee on Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance.

Hon. Dagomie Abainte in contributing to the debate expressed concern at the seeming lack of thoroughness of the House Committee on Aviation to verify if all the points raised in the motion is really as bad as it is stated.

Hon. Julius Ihonbvere stated that the easiest way to compromise airport safety is through contractors supplying substandard facilities. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Aviation.

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PRESENTATION OF BILLS:

1. Federal Capital Territory Statutory Supplementary Appropriation Bill, 2024 (HB. 1440) (Executive) – First Reading.
2. National Anti-Doping Bill, 2024 (HB. 1441) (Executive) – First Reading.
3. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2024 (HB. 1442) (Hon. Tajudeen Abbas) – First Reading.
4. Federal Vocational Training Centre Riyom, Plateau State (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB. 1288) (Hon. Dalyop Chollim Fom) – First Reading.
5. Medical Physics Regulatory Council of Nigeria, 1999 (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1321) (Hon. Ibrahim Aliyu) – First Reading.
6. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2024 (HB.1381) (Hon. Mansur Manu Soro) – First Reading.
7. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2024 (HB.1402) (Hon. Babajimi Benson) – First Reading.
8. Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1385) (Hon. Olaide Lateef Muhammed) – First Reading.
9. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2024 (HB.1403) (Hon. Babajimi Benson) – First Reading.
10. Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1386) (Hon. Olaide Lateef Muhammed) – First Reading.
11. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2024 (HB.1404) (Hon. Babajimi Benson) – First Reading.
12. Federal University Kisi, Oyo State (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1387) (Hon. Olaide Lateef Muhammed) – First Reading.
13. Fiscal Responsibility Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1388) (Hon. Tochukwu Okere) – First Reading.
14. Labour Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1389) (Hon. Tochukwu Okere) – First Reading.
15. Pension Reform Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB. 1390) (Hon. Tochukwu Okere) – First Reading.
16. Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1414) (Hon. Oluwaseyi Sowunmi) – First Reading.
17. Federal College of Dental Technology and Therapy, Kusada, Katsina State (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1417) (Hon. Abubakar Yahaya Kusada) – First Reading.
18. Federal Technical and Vocational Training Centre, Aba (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1328) (Hon. Alexander Mascot Ikwechegh) – First Reading.
19. Local Industry Patronage Bill, 2024 (HB.1330) (Hon. Jesse Okey-Joe Onuakalusi) – First Reading.
20. Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2024 (HB. 1443) (O. K Chinda) – First Reading.
21. Federal Housing Authority Bill, 2024 (HB. 1459) (Hon. Aminu Balele) – First Reading.

Nigeria Police Act (Amendment) Bill, 2024 (HB. 1461) (Hon. Tajudeen Abbas and Hon. Abubakar Makki Yalleman) – First Reading.

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PRESENTATION OF REPORTS:

1. Committee on Public Petitions:

Report on the petition by Olubamiji & Co. against the Nigeria Army and the Nigeria Police:

Hon. Mike Etaba:

“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Public Petitions on the Petition by Olubamiji & Co. against the Nigeria Army and the Nigeria Police Force on the gruesome murder of Babajide Owolabi on the 6 August, 2019 by Soldiers attached to 93 Battalion, Takum, Taraba State, while on national assignment with the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Intelligence Response Team (IRT)” (Referred:25/10/2023);

The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Mike Etaba and seconded by Hon. Ismail Kusad.

2. Committee on Public Petitions:

Report on the petition by P.P Alajo & Associates against National Examinations Council (NECO):

Hon. Mike Etaba:

“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Public Petitions on the Petition by P.P Alajo & Associates against National Examinations Council (NECO) for unlawful dismissal from office” (Referred: 26/8/23)

The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Mike Etaba and seconded by Hon. Ismail Kusad.

3. Committee on Public Petitions:

Report on the petition by Alfa Onum against the Nigeria Customs Service:

Hon. Mike Etaba:

“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Public Petitions on the Petition by Alfa Onum against the Nigeria Customs Service on the non-compliance of the House Resolutions on his case” (Referred:14/11/23).

The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Mike Etaba and seconded by Hon. Ismail Kusad.

4. Committee on Public Petitions:

Report on the petition by Kennedy C. Amos and Associates against Airtel Networks Ltd:

Hon. Mike Etaba:

“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Public Petitions on the Petition by Kennedy C. Amos and Associates against Airtel Networks Ltd over Fraudulent Transaction involving the land of Mrs. Juliana Nwikanne of Bianu Town Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State” (Referred:17/10/2023).

The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Mike Etaba and seconded by Hon. Ismail Kusad.

5. Committee on Public Petitions:

Report on the petition by Civil Society for Ethics and Values Development Initiatives:

Hon. Mike Etaba:

“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Public Petitions on the petition by Civil Society for Ethics and Values Development Initiatives on the denial of Promotion for Professors working at the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD)” (Referred: 6/2/2024).

The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Mike Etaba and seconded by Hon. Ismail Kusad.

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ORDERS OF THE DAY:

BILLS:

1. A Bill for an Act to Amend the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act, Cap. A12 Laws of Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to make provisions for Establishment of Agricultural and Energy Technical Institute, Aboh, Delta State and for Related Matters (HB.955) (Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi) – Second Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kelechi Nwogu. Hon. Ezechi in leading the debate stated that the proposed Technical Institute will be highly beneficial to those in the region especially in the area of agricultural research and development. He stated that the Institute will also ensure higher level of specialized training, prosperity via job and wealth creation. He urged Honorable members to support the Bill for second reading. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions.

2. A Bill for an Act to make Provision for the Retirement Age for Officers of the Nigeria Police Force and for Related Matters (HB.1083) (Hon. Wale Hammed) – Second Reading.

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

3. A Bill for an Act to Amend National Teachers’ Institute Act, Cap. N79, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to Constitute Membership of the Council and Provide Nigeria Certificate in Education, Undergraduate, Post–Graduate and Research Programmes in Teachers Education and for Related Matters (HB. 879) (Hon. Abdulmalik Zubairu) – Second Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Abdulmalik Zubairu moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Sa’ad Taura. Hon. Zubairu in leading the debate stated that the Bill seeks to amend the principal Act to enable the Institute perform more efficiently by legalizing the certificates of courses added to the curriculum. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Federal Colleges of Education.

4. A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Medical Centres Act to Establish Federal Medical Centre Atan -Ota, Ogun State and for Related Matters (HB. 349) (Hon. Olatunji Akinosi) – Second Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Olatunji Akinosi moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Mohammed Omar Bio. Hon. Akinosi in leading the debate stated the importance of the establishment of the proposed Federal medical center cannot be overemphasized as it seeks to cater for the healthcare needs of the large number of citizens in the region. He stated that those in the region have continuously expressed their desire to have the center so that they do not have to keep traveling far for such healthcare services. Hon. Akinosi urged Honorable members to support the Bill for second reading. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Health Institutions.

5. A Bill for an Act to Amend the National Health Insurance Authority Act, 2021 to Establish National Social Registrar (NSR) as the Primary Identification Tool for the Disbursement of the Vulnerable Group Fund and For Related Matters (HB.803) (Hon. Adedayo Samuel Adesola) – Second Reading.

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

6. A Bill for an Act Amend the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act to remove Spouse from the List of Persons required to declare their Assets and for Related Matters (HB. 769) (Hon. Tasir Olawale Raji) – Second Reading.

Debate:

Hon.Olawale Raji moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Murphy Osaro. Hon. Raji in leading the debate stated that the Bill seeks to amend Sections 15(1c) and 23(7) of the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act. This he stated is to ensure proper accountability of assets and liabilities of the officer, his/her spouse as well as unmarried children under the age of 21.

Hon. Raji stated that the provisions will promote accountability and protect Public Officers from embarrassing situations that may arise from negligence. He called for the total expulsion of Section 23(7) as it contravenes the Nigerian constitution.

Hon. Kingsley Chinda while agreeing with the intent of the Bill, urged caution in the consideration as regards to the issue of removing spouses from the provisions saying that experiences have shown that even children are used sometimes as conduits of stolen wealth. He stated that the amendment should reflect the age limit from 21 to 18 since that’s the officially recognized age for adulthood in Nigeria.

The Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen stated that the Bill may not be perfect, but the public hearing will avail the opportunity to ensure stakeholders provide more critical input. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Anti Corruption.

7. A Bill for an Act to Establish Nigerian Ajaokuta Special Trust Fund and for Related Matters (HB. 1160) (Hon. Sanni Egidi Abdulraheem) – Second Reading.

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

8. A Bill for an Act to Amend the Nigeria Police Act 2020 to Review the Service Years of Police Personnel in order to improve the Experience and Expertise of the Police Workforce, to retain Experienced Personnel and reduce the Cost of Training and Recruiting new Officers, improve the Morale Performance and Job satisfaction, and to Address the shortage of Experience Police Personnel and Related Matters (HB. 1461) (Hon. Tajudeen Abbas and Hon. Abubakar Makki Yalleman) – Second Reading.

Debate:

Hon. Abubakar Yalleman moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kabiru Amadu. Hon. Yalleman in leading the debate stated that the Bill seeks to amend the Nigeria Police Act 2020 to review the age and service years to promote professionalism and performance in the Nigeria police. He stated that the Bill highlights the need to ensure the police is on top of its game in battling crime, banditry, criminalities and general insecurity, and seeks to ensure the enabling environment to achieve this. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Police.

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MOTIONS:

9. Outstanding Bills from Preceding Assembly:

Hon. Francis E. Waive:

(i) Federal University of Dental Technology and Therapy, Enugu (HB.249);

(ii) South West Development Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2023(HB.283);

(iii) Court of Appeal Act (Amendment) Bill, 2023(HB.319);

(iv) Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Ondo, Ondo State (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (HB.548);

(v) Nigerian Content Programmes, Contracts, Science, Engineering, Technology and Innovation (NOPCESTI) Bill, 2024 (HB.1167);

(vi) African Union Convention for the Protection and Assistance of Internally Displaced Persons (Donestication and Enforcement) Bill (HB.1350); and

(vii) National Agency for Technology Management (Establishment) Bill, 2024 (HB.1193).

The House:

Notes that pursuant to Order Twelve, Rule 17 of the Standing Orders, the House may, upon being re-gazetted or circulated, reconsider in the Committee of the Whole, without commencing de-novo, the Bill(s)–

(a) whose report was presented by the Committee before consideration;

(b) passed by the House and forwarded to the Senate for concurrence for which no concurrence was made or negative;

(c) passed by the Senate and forwarded to the House for which no concurrence was made or negative; or;

(d) passed by the preceding Assembly and forwarded to the President for assent but for which assent or withholding therefore was not communicated before the end of the tenure of the preceding Assembly.

Also notes that the aforementioned Bills were passed by the preceding Assembly and forwarded to the President for assent but for which assent or withholding thereof was not communicated before the end of the tenure of the last Assembly;

Aware that the Bills were read for the first time as HBs. 249, 283, 319, 548, 1350, 1167 and 1193respectively;

Resolves to:

Re-commit the Bills to the Committee of the Whole for consideration.

Debate:

Hon. Francis Waive moved the motion on Outstanding Bills from Preceding Assembly and it was seconded by Hon. Bitrus Laore. The motion was voted on, adopted and Committed to the Committee of the Whole.

10. Need to ensure International Oil Companies involved in the Divestment of Assets in Niger Delta Region of Nigeria Comply with the Decommissioning, Abandonment Regulations and Guidelines of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) as Enshrined in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA):
    Hon. Ikeagwuonu Onyinye Ugochinyere:

The House:

Notes that the National Assembly is saddled with the task of making laws for the peace, order, and good governance of the Federation or any part thereof as enshrined in Section 4(2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended);

Also notes that Sections 88(1) and (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), empower the National Assembly to conduct investigations into the activities of any authority executing or administering laws made by the National Assembly;

Cognizant that Section 232 of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021 provides that the decommissioning and abandonment of petroleum wells, installations, structures, utilities, plants, and pipelines for petroleum operations on land and offshore shall be conducted in accordance with good international petroleum industry practice and guidelines issued by the Commission or Authority;

Also cognizant that in exercise of the powers conferred on it by Section 232(1)(b) of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) issued the Nigerian Upstream Decommissioning and Abandonment Regulations, 2023, which, among other things, provided certain guidelines to be followed when carrying out offshore decommissioning operations;

Acknowledges that the guidelines put in place by the NUPRC for decommissioning and abandonment procedures are in tandem with global best practice and accordingly commends the Commission, particularly its Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, FNSE, for his visionary leadership;

Aware that most of the international oil companies involved in petrol operations in the country are closing up their petroleum operations in Nigeria and relocating out of the country, without clearly following or complying with the decommissioning and abandonment guidelines as prescribed by NUPRC and enshrined in the PIA;

Also aware that most of the international oil companies are divesting their company assets in Nigeria and relocating out of the country, without clearly following or complying with the decommissioning and abandonment guidelines as prescribed by NUPRC and as enshrined in the PIA;

Concerned that as a result of the exploration and other activities of the international oil companies in the Niger Delta, the region has suffered great environmental degradation for years, with farmlands and water bodies being destroyed, leaving the communities’ ecosystems completely milked and irreparably exploited;

Worried that if consent is given for the divestment of the assets of the international oil companies (IOCs) without ensuring their compliance with the guidelines and regulations put in place, the host communities will suffer irredeemably, and the companies taking over the assets of the IOCs will not be able to remedy the degradation;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Minister of Petroleum Resources (Oil) and the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to refrain from granting consent to divesting international oil companies (IOCs) until there is full compliance with the Guidelines for Decommissioning, as well as the Regulations made pursuant to the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA);

(ii) mandate the Committees on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), Petroleum Resources (Midstream), Host Communities, Gas Resources, and Petroleum Resources (Upstream) to investigate the level of compliance with the Decommissioning and Abandonment Guidelines of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) as enshrined in the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021, and report back to the House within four weeks for further legislative action.

Motion stepped down by leave of the House.

11. Call on Nigeria Police to Halt Collection of Five Thousand Naira for Issuance of Motor Vehicle Information Certificate:

Hon. Chris Nkonta:

The House:

Notes that all actions, programme, plans, and activities of government agencies are backed by the Constitution and statutes and, importantly, should wear a human face;

Aware that there is no legislation from the National Assembly (which has the constitutional responsibility of making laws for the good governance of the country) either empowering or delegating powers to the Police to embark on the registration of any sort of vehicle and that the Police cannot donate power to itself;

Also aware that neither the Constitution nor the Police Act empowered the police to arrest vehicle users for non-registration of the Police Central Motor Registry Information System (CMRS) the police now harass, intimidate, and arrest motorists on the ground of non-possession of a Motor Vehicle Information Certificate;

Disturbed that the current hardship in the land and any unchecked imposition of levy on the citizens will further worsen their suffering;

Worried that the police officers on the road have turned the non-possession of the Motor Vehicle Information Certificate into a source of extortion and exploitation of the motorists;

Cognizant that it is the duty of the National Assembly to represent and protect the citizens, there is a need to call the police for an explanation to avert impunity and bizarre use of power;

Resolves to:

(i) invite the Inspector General of Police to brief the House of Representatives

on the usefulness and essence of the registration; and

(ii) mandate the Committee on Police to investigate the activities of the police with respect to the Police Central Motor Registry Information System and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.

Motion stepped down by leave of the House.

12. Non-compliance with Corporate Social Responsibility obligations towards Oil-producing
    communities by ExxonMobil Company Limited in Akwa Ibom State.

Hon. Uduak Alphonsus Odudoh:

The House:

Notes that the Global advocacy calls multinational companies to prioritize poverty alleviation and community development through Corporate Social Responsibility, particularly in South Countries;

Also notes that Corporate Social Responsibility is a deliberate efforts of business organization to act in a manner that promote the interest of its employees, suppliers, consumers, government, host Communities, ecosystem and society at large;

Aware that ExxonMobil has been operating in Akwa Ibom State having started her offshore oil exploration in Eastern Obolo territorial waters as Mobile Producing Limited, and owned the largest offshore platforms with a total of 728, 000 barrels per day gotten from her Six (6) platforms compressing Ekpe platform with 98,000 barrels per day, Inim platform with 82,000 barrels per day, Oso platform with 120, 000 barrels per day, Idoho platform with 78, 000 barrels per day, Edop platform with 300,000 barrels per day, and, Asabo platform with 50, 000 barrels per day respectively;

Also aware that ExxonMobil’s operations in Akwa Ibom State has contributed to environmental degradation, causing oil spills, sea pollution, ecosystem disruption, air pollution, farm destruction, aquatic animal deaths, and trade truncation;

Cognizance that before the enactment of Petroleum Industry Act 2022, Community Development trust fund was created to exclude Multinational Companies operating in Nigeria from directly engaging in host Communities Development through payment of certain percentage into the trust account, but ExxonMobil has failed to carry out its Corporate Social Responsibility to host Communities in Akwa Ibom State in the past one and a half decade;

Worried that despite ExxonMobil’s intervention programmes on Community development in Akwa Ibom State, their social activities do not commensurate with the level of environmental devastation and degradation orchestrated by its operations, as most host Communities are currently facing abject poverty and absence of infrastructural projects;

Also worried that Research shows that ExxonMobil’s efforts only facilitate exploration, with access roads connecting oil and gas fields to host communities;

Resolves to:

(i) mandate the Committee on Corporate Social Responsibility to investigate ExxonMobil Company’s Limited level of compliance with Corporate Social Responsibility in Akwa Ibom State from 2010 to 2021; and

(ii) also mandate the Committees on Corporate Social Responsibility and Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.

Motion stepped down by leave of the House.

13. Rehabilitation of Ubiaja/Ebu/Asaba Federal Road in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency:
    Hon. Ngozi Okolie:

The House:

Notes that the Ubiaja/Ebu/Asaba road in Aniocha/Oshimili federal constituency is a high commuter road within and across the State which facilitates commercial activities both within the state and outside the state;

Also notes that the road is of immense benefit to the movement of goods, services and individuals to and from the Nation’s Capital which is of overall benefit to the nation’s economy;

Aware that this very important road has been left in a deplorable state which hinders free flow of movement of goods and services;

Worried that with the present state of the road, commercial activities of the residents would be immensely affected, and paralyzed economic activity within that region ultimately leading to the loss of millions of Naira worth of goods;

Cognizant that the rehabilitation of the road would boost economic activities in the region and facilitate quick movement of people from the region to the nation’s capital in a record time.

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Works and FERMA to immediately Commence repairs on the Ubiaja/Ebu/Asaba road in Edo state, Oshimli North and Oshimili South of Delta state; and

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

Debate:

Hon. Ngozi Okolie moved the motion on rehabilitation of Ubiaja/Ebu/Asaba federal road in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency and it was seconded by Hon. Mukhtar Zakari. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Works, Federal Road Maintenance Agency as well as that on Legislative Compliance.

14. Deteriorating State of Electricity Supply in Minna and Environs:
    Hon. Yusuf Kure Baraje:

The House:

Notes that Niger State is home to crucial power generation infrastructure, including three hydroelectric power dams like Kainji, Jebba, and Shiroro Dams;

Aware of the recent 240% hike in electricity tariffs, which saw rates increase from N68/Kwh to N225/Kwh across bandwidths;

Alarmed that without incidences of grid collapses, residents and businesses in Minna metropolis and its environs have continued to experience prolonged power outages despite being consumers under different tariff bands;

Concerned that the recent banding of customers into A, B, C by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) based on expected hours of supply has not translated to actual supply realities on the ground;

Also concerned that the citizens of Minna are presently getting a grossly inadequate electricity supply regardless of the tariff paid, in stark contrast to expectations.

Also concerned that the citizens of Minna are currently receiving inadequate electricity supply, despite the paid tariff, which is in stark contrast to their expectations;

Resolves to:

(i) mandate the Committee on Power to interface with Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, Transmission Company of Nigeria and Abuja Electricity Distribution Company to identify and address the issue of poor supply; and

(ii) also mandate the Committee on Power to Monitor the restoration of stable electricity in Minna as soon as possible and investigate the poor electricity supply situation in Minna and its environs and report in two weeks.

Debate:

Hon. Yusuf Baraje moved the motion on deteriorating state of electricity supply in Minna and environs and it was seconded by Hon. Boniface Emerengwa. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Power.

15. Need to Complete the Okaki Yenegwe, Okolo Nembe Road Project:
    Hon. Mitema Obordor:

The House:

Notes that the Okaki-Yenegwe-Kolo-Nembe Road project connects over 30 communities across four (4) local government areas of Rivers and Bayelsa States;

Also notes that this road project was first conceived and awarded in 1943, during the pre-colonial era, for a paltry sum of three (3) million pounds;

Aware that the contract for the reconstruction of the said road was awarded during the administration of late President Shehu Shagari in 1981, but it was not executed;

Also aware that during the administration of Late President Umaru Musa Yar-Adua, the contract for the reconstruction of the road was rewarded to Messrs Enerco Company Limited at a contract sum of N9,983,340,780.00 with a completion term of 24 months;

Further aware that only 6 kilometres of the road was constructed by the contractor, thus abandoning the project;

Worried that the non-completion of this road project has negatively affected travel time and access to local markets, workplaces, educational institutions, and farms;

Also worried that several commuters and residents, especially farmers, have lost their lives and farm produce worth millions of naira as a result of the deplorable state of the road and robbery incidences;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Work to prompt Messrs, Enerco Company Limited, back to site and expedite the construction of the road project; and

(ii) mandate the Committees on Works and FERMA to ensure compliance.

Debate:

Hon. Mitema Obordor moved the motion on the need to complete the Okaki Yenegwe, Okolo Nembe road project and it was seconded by Hon. Umar Ajilo. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Works as well as that on Federal Road Maintenance Agency.

16. Rehabilitation of Biu –Garkida– Adamawa Road in Askira – Uba/Hawul Federal constituency:
    Hon. Midala Usman Balami:

The House:

Notes that the Biu-Garkida-Adamawa Road, a critical transportation link serving several communities in the Askira-Uba/Hawul Federal Constituency, has fallen into severe disrepair, posing significant risks to commuters and hindering economic activities in the region;

Also notes that the road’s deplorable condition has caused numerous accidents, leading to the loss of lives, injuries, and substantial damage to vehicles. This deteriorated infrastructure not only endangers the safety of road users but also impedes the socio-economic development of the area;

Concerned that the current state of the Biu-Garkida-Adamawa Road is likely to worsen with the onset of the rainy season, further increasing the risk of accidents and hampering the transportation of goods and services. It is critical to address this issue promptly to avoid further loss of life and economic stagnation;

Worried that despite being awarded for construction and rehabilitation in 2020, the road project has not received the necessary attention and resources, leading to continued degradation and significant challenges for commuters and businesses in the region;

Aware that the rehabilitation of this road is vital not only for the safety and well-being of the residents of Borno and Adamawa States, but also for the overall connectivity and economic stability of the region. The Biu-Garkida-Gombi road is a key route for transportation, trade, and access to essential services;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Works to prioritize rehabilitation of Biu –Garkida– Adamawa Road without delay to safeguard lives, support economic growth, and enhance transportation infrastructure in the Askira-Uba/Hawul Federal Constituency and the Northeast subregion;

(ii) mandate the Committees on Works and Appropriations to allocate funds for the rehabilitation of Biu –Garkida– Adamawa Road in the 2025 budget estimates; and

(iii) also mandate Committees on Works and Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance

Debate:

Hon. Midala Balami moved the motion on rehabilitation of Biu –Garkida– Adamawa road in Askira – Uba/Hawul Federal constituency and it was seconded by Hon. Muktar Betara. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House committee on Works as well as that on Legislative Compliance.

17. Installation of Appropriate and Adequate Metering System by the Department of Petroleum Resources of Nigeria (DPR):

Hon. Afupe Moruf Afolabi:

The House:

Notes that Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited is an agency of the government in charge of crude oil production and sales;

Aware that Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited generates revenue (foreign exchange) through the sales of crude oil, which serves as the basis for Nigeria’s annual budgeting as an income-dependent economy;

Also notes that NNPC daily sales are revenue belonging to the federal government and ought to be monitored by the Ministry of Finance, which is the supervisory agency for the economy;

Further notes that the Ministry of Finance is the agency in charge of the revenue and expenditures of the government, having as one of its cores mandates the obligation to certify that the production and revenue declarations of Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited are correct and accurate;

Concerned that the Minister of Finance relies only on the information of production and sales (including exports), and revenue earned by the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited as supplied by the NNPCL itself, having lacked the capacity to derive the actual data information by himself;

Also concerned that the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited does not have an appropriate and adequate installed metering system, sufficient to give accurate data on its daily production of crude and exports, thereby rendering the Ministry of Finance inefficient;

Worried that the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited has remained unaudited for more than a decade, making it difficult to ascertain the true standing and functionality of the agency as a revenue generating agency of the government, except as declared by itself;

Also worried that the inability of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited to render an accurate data account and its ability to determine and measure its production flow have rendered the nation’s crude oil susceptible to continuous theft, thereby losing more foreign earnings;

Resolves to:

(i) urge the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited to install an appropriate and adequate metering system on the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited production and sales lines for effective monitoring of production, sales, and revenues earned;

(ii) also urge the Ministry of Finance to institute the process of auditing the records of production and sales by the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited retrospectively, covering the last fifteen (15) years; and

(iii) mandate the Committee on Petroleum Resources (Down Stream) to immediately investigate the past production and sales activities of Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited and recommend appropriate measures to ensure transparency in the production and sales declarations of the agency.

Motion stepped down by leave of the House.

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CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS (HOUSE IN THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE) Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu Chaired:

18. Committee on Public Petitions:
    Report on the petition by A. E. Adole &Co against Julius Berger Nigeria Plc Ijora-Lagos:

Hon. Mike Etaba:

“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Public Petitions on the petition by A. E. Adole & Co against Julius Berger Nigeria Plc Ijora-Lagos A Case of Conspiracy to Vendetta, Criminal Defamation and Conduct likely to cause Breach of Peace (Laid:13/2/2024).

(i) urge the management of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc to reinstate the Petitioner, Mr. Umoh Edet Okon back to the service of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc;

(ii) pay him all the arrears of his benefits and entitlements;

(iii) or in the alternative, pay him off with all his entitlement and benefits if his services are no longer required in the company;

(iv) caution the management of Julius Berger Plc to always abide by the extant employment laws and regulations as regard to the management of the staff of the company.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Mike Etaba stated that report concerns the termination of the employment of the complainant by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc. The House is to communicate a caution to Julius Berger Plc for failing to appear before the House committee on Public Petitions for the investigative meeting.

Hon. Dagomie Abiante moved a motion to add a 5th recommendation for the leadership of the House to use its weight to bear and summon Julius Berger Plc to explain why it keeps neglecting summons from the National Assembly which is the highest Lawmaking body in Nigeria and it was seconded by Hon. Obi Aguocha.

Summary of voting

Recommendations voted on and adopted: 1-3

Recommendation amended and adopted : 4

19. Committee on Public Petitions:
    Report on the petition by Dr. Hilary Ibe against the Veterinary Council of Nigeria:

Hon. Mike Etaba:

“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Public Petitions on the petition by Dr. Hilary Ibe against the Veterinary Council of Nigeria for reinstatement and payment of full benefits and approve recommendations therein” (Laid:8/2/2024).

(i) urge the Registrar, Veterinary Council of Nigeria to reinstate and officially retire the Petitioner, Dr. Hillary Ibe as and when he was due for retirement in 2022

(ii) pay him all the arrears of his salaries, benefits and entitlements from 2009 to 2022 when he was officially supposed to retire from the service.

(iii) also pay him other compensation for collateral damage he suffered as a result of the Council actions over him.

(iv) that the Petitioner should provide all the necessary documents needed by the Veterinary Council of Nigeria to process his entitlements and benefits.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Mike Etaba stated that the report is as a result of a case where the complainant was accused of fraud and was referred to the EFCC which later abandoned the matter at the Court inconclusively.

Summary of voting

Recommendations voted on and adopted: 1-4

20. Committee on Public Petitions:
    Report on the petition by Dr. Moemeke George Onyekanjinke against Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority:

Hon. Mike Etaba:

“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Public Petitions on the petition by Dr. Moemeke George Onyekanjinke against the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority on a Complaint of Unfair Treatment and Handling of Service conditions, an appeal for Investigation and consideration of his petition brought before the 9th Assembly but was not concluded before the end of the 9th Assembly and approve recommendations therein” (Laid:8/2/2024).

(i) urge the management of Benin Owena River Basin Development Authority to restore the salary of petitioner, Dr. George Moemeke Onyekanijike bac to IPPIS;

(ii) pay him the arrears of his salaries and benefits from April, 2023 to date, to enable him settle his loan and pay his medical Bill;

(iii) assist the petitioner in ensuring that his insurance company replaces his car;

(iv) also urge the petitioner to desist from embarking any official project of the Authority without the approval of the management;

(v) retire and pay him all his retirement benefits, due for retirement.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Mike Etaba stated that the details of the report began in the 9th Assembly but was inconclusive. The committee in the 10th House of Representatives reconsidered it and urged Honorable members to approve it.

Summary of voting

Recommendations voted on and adopted: 1-5

21. Committee on Public Petitions:
    Report on the petition by Joseph Andrew A. Against Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL):

Hon. Mike Etaba:

“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Public Petitions on the petition by Joseph Andrew A. Against the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL): An Appeal for reinstatement back to Service and approve recommendations therein” (Laid:8/2/2024).

(i) urge the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd to reinstate the Petitioner, Mr. Joseph Andrew A. back to the Service of the NNPC Ltd.

(ii) pay him off all the arrears of the salaries and benefits from January 2000 to date;

(iii) pay him off with all his entitlements and benefits if his services are no longer required by the NNPC Ltd;

(iv) that the Petitioner should make his records of service available to the management of NNPC Ltd to enable them process his entitlements and benefits and also being to the House evidence of such payment.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Mike Etaba stated that the NNPC also did not appear before the committee in the investigative meeting and the committee saw no merit in the dismissal of the complainant.

Hon. Kabiru Amadu also moved a motion to add a 5th recommendation for the leadership of the House to use its weight to bear and summon NNPC to explain why it keeps neglecting summons from the National Assembly which is the highest Lawmaking body in Nigeria and it was seconded by Hon. Abubakar Yalleman.

Summary of voting:

Recommendations voted on and adopted: 1-3

Recommendation amended and adopted: 4

22. Committee on Public Petitions:
    Report on the petition by M.C Chambers against Multi-Choice Nigeria Limited, the National Broadcasting Commission and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission:

Hon. Mike Etaba:

“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Public Petitions on the petition by M.C Chambers against Multi-Choice Nigeria Limited, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) over the persistent and unjustified increase in the Tariffs; a request to stop same and implement the Pay -As –You View -Scheme and approve recommendations therein” (Laid:8/2/2024).

(i) fast-track the amendment of the NBC Act in order to give them more power to have total control of changes to consumers by all broadcasting industries in Nigeria.

(ii) urge the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to introduce more broadcasting industries to operate in Nigeria in order to allow free competition among the industries and subscribers.

(iii) that the Multi-Choice Nigeria Limited should obey the Court Order of the Federal High Court in Suit No. FHC/CS/894/2018 and desist from charging or receiving any price or tariff from its customers that is otherwise different from the existing price in the industry pending the resolution of the matters by the House;

(iv) that the issue of the current charges in the country such as inflation, fluctuations in the Nigeria currency, removal of fuel subsidy which lead to the increase in tariff on the side of Multi-Choice Nigeria Limited should be jointly resolved among the consumers, subscribers, NBC, FCCPC and the Multi-Choice and acceptable price which may not liquidate the Multi-Choice be fixed for the subscribers of the broadcasting industries in Nigeria.

Synopsis of the report:

Hon. Mike Etaba stated that the Law Chambers petitioned Multi-Choice Nigeria ltd. who did not honor the invitation of the committee while the leadership of NBC and FCCPC were present at the meeting.

Hon. Dagomie Abiante and Hon. Kingsley Chinda pointed out that the grammar of the recommendations are very vague and adopting it as it is could ridicule the House in the Committee of the Whole.

The Chairman of the Committee of the Whole, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu called on the Clerk of the House to provide the House committee on Public Petitions with 2 lawyers to aid it during its investigative meetings.

Further consideration of the report was stepped down by leave of the House.

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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. Julius Ihonbvere and seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda.

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Adjournment:

The House at 13:58 PM adjourned plenary to Wednesday, May 22nd, 2024 by 11:00 A.M following a motion for adjournment moved by the Leader of the House Hon. Julius Ihonbvere and seconded by the Minority Leader Hon. Kingsley Chinda.

Courtesy:

Media Unit, Office of the Speaker, House of Representatives.