Plenary proceedings, House of Reps, Wed, March 12th, 2025
The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen presided.
After the recitation of the First stanza of the National Anthem, the National Pledge and opening prayer, the Speaker approved the votes and proceedings of Tuesday, March 11th, 2025.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
- There will be a meeting for all Honorable Members from the North Central caucus today, Wednesday, March 12th, 2025 at House 60, Nelson Mandela Street, Asokoro, Abuja by 20:00.
- Plenary for Thursday, March 13th, 2025 will be solely dedicated to the discussion of the 4 Tax Reform Bills, so Honorable Members are enjoined to make themselves available.
PETITION:
- Hon. Chris Nkwonta laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against men suspected to be from the Department of State Security on alleged illegal killing of Mr. Precious James and assassination attempt, threat of life abduction and continuous harassment of the lives of the victim’s family and other people.
The petition was referred to the House Committee on Public Petitions.
MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE:
- Hon. Julius Ihonbvere moved a motion on the urgent need for Federal Government intervention in communities in Owan East of Edo state ravaged by flooding and windstorm and it was seconded by Hon. Mohammed Shehu. Hon. Ihonbvere in leading the debate stated that the affected communities have been badly ravaged and are in dire need of humanitarian assistance. He commended the efforts of the Edo state government for providing assistance, but stated that the effects of the disaster is much more than the state can handle. Hon. Ihonbvere called on the Federal Government to provide relief to the affected people and ensure full rehabilitation of the victims. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on National Emergency and Disaster Preparedness.
- Hon. Akintunde Rotimi moved a motion on the outbreak of diphtheria in Kings College, Lagos and it was seconded by Hon. Muktar Shagaya. Hon. Rotimi in leading the debate expressed deep concern at the outbreak that has led to the death of one student and hospitalization of several others. He stressed that the outbreak exposes lapses in the response of schools in containing these forms of diseases. Hon. Rotimi commended the Lagos state Government’s quick intervention to the issue and asked the Federal Ministry of Education to take proactive actions to ensure the containment of the disease. He also called on the House Committee on Health as well as that on Basic Education to liaise with institutions to prevent and contain if necessary, further outbreaks. He further called on the Ministry of Health to ensure proper vaccination of students and pupils. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Basic Education as well as that on Health Institutions.
MATTER OF PERSONAL EXPLANATION:
- Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka rose on a matter of personal explanation to, on behalf of Honorable Members of the Ogun state caucus, appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the adoption of the Tai Solarin University of Education as a substantive Federal Government Institution. He also appreciated the Ogun state Governor for managing the Institution so well that it became attractive for the Federal Government to approve its adoption.
PRESENTATION OF BILLS
- Chartered Institute for Medical Dialysis Studies of Nigeria, Oleh, Isoko South Local Government Area, Delta State Bill, 2025 (HB. 2129) (Hon. Ajirioghene Jonathan Ukodhiko) – First Reading.
- Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2134) (Hon. Adebayo Balogun) – First Reading.
- Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2128) (Hon. Ajirioghene Jonathan Ukodhiko) – First Reading.
- National Tourism Development Corporation Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2130) (Hon. Ajirioghene Jonathan Ukodhiko) – First Reading.
- National Palm Oil and Cassava Production, Processing and Research Institute, Otor-Iyede, Delta State (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2131) (Hon. Ajirioghene Jonathan Ukodhiko) – First Reading.
- Nigeria Police Academy Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2132) (Hon. Kalejaiye Adeboye Paul) – First Reading.
- Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2133) (Hon. Abdulmaleek Abdulraheem Danga) – First Reading.
- Orthopaedic Hospitals Management Board Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2159) (Hon. Bello Hassan Shinkafi) – First Reading.
- Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2136) (Hon. Benedict O. Etanabene) – First Reading.
- Lithium Development Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2137) (Hon. Victor Obuzor) – First Reading.
- Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2138) (Hon. Victor Obuzor) – First Reading.
- Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2158) (Hon. Adefiranye Ayodele Festus) – First Reading.
- Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2168) (Hon. Adebayo Olusegun Balogun) – First Reading.
- Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2177) (Hon. Abbas Tajudeen and Hon. Usman Bello Kumo) – First Reading.
- Chartered Institute of Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Educators, Nigeria Bill, 2025 (HB. 2181) (Hon. Muhammed Olaide Lateef) – First Reading.
- Fiscal Responsibility Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2182) (Hon. Murphy Osaro Omoruyi) – First Reading.
- Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2183) (Hon. Adebayo Olusegun Balogun) – First Reading.
- Federal Medical Centres Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2185) (Hon. Garba Umar Uba) – First Reading.
- Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2135) (Hon. Adebayo Balogun) – First Reading.
- Federal University of Education, Gusau, (Establishment) Bill, (HB. 2092) 2025 (Hon. Isa Mohammed Anka) – First Reading.
- Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2025 (HB. 2173) (Hon. Adebayo Olusegun Balogun) – First Reading.
PRESENTATION OF REPORTS
- Committee on Public Accounts:
Hon. Bamidele Salam:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Public Accounts on the annual Report of the Auditor General for the Federation for the year ended December 31 2019 (Part 1) Non–compliance and Internal Control Weakness Issues in MDAs” pursuant to Order Twenty Rules 6 (2)(i) of the Standing Orders of the House of Representatives.
The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Bamidele Salam and seconded by Hon. Dauda Yanknpa.
- Committee on Public Accounts:
Hon. Bamidele Salam:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Public Accounts on the Annual Report of the Auditor General of the Federation for the year ended 31 December 2020 (Part 1) Non–compliance and Internal Control Weakness Issues in MDAs” pursuant to Order Twenty Rules 6 (2)(i) of the Standing Orders of the House of Representatives.
The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Bamidele Salam and seconded by Hon. Dauda Yanknpa.
- Committee on Public Accounts:
Hon. Bamidele Salam:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Public Accounts on the Investigation into Revenue Leakages through the Remita Platform and Non–compliance Substantively with Standard Operating Procedures and Other Allied Service Level Agreements” (HR. 22/11/2023) (Referred: 11/2023).
The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Bamidele Salam and seconded by Hon. Dauda Yanknpa.
- Committee on Basic Education and Services:
Hon. Mark B. Useni:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Basic Education and Services on a Bill for an Act to Establish Gifted and Talented Centres in the Six Geo-Political Zones in Nigeria and in Tran-Ekulu, Enugu State and for Related Matters (HBs. 931 & 1086)” (Referred:9/7/2024 &7/3/2024)
The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Mark Useni and seconded by Hon.Muktar Shagaya.
- Committee on Basic Education and Services:
Hon. Mark B. Useni:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Basic Education and Services Need to Reverse the Recent Hike of School Fees in Unity Secondary Schools in Nigeria (HR: 50/07/2023)” (Referred:11/7/2023).
The report was laid following a motion by Hon. Mark Useni and seconded by Hon.Muktar Shagaya.
ORDERS OF THE DAY
BILLS
- A Bill for an Act to Repeal the Insurance Act, Cap. I 17, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004; the Marine Insurance Act, Cap. M3, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004; the Motor Vehicle (Third Party) Insurance Act, Cap. M22, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004; the National Insurance Corporation of Nigeria, Act, Cap. N54, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004; the Nigerian Reinsurance Corporation Act, Cap. N131, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and Enact the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act, 2005 to Provide for a Comprehensive Legal and Regulatory Framework for Insurance Business in Nigeria and for Related Matters (SB. 393) (Senate) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Third Reading.
Debate
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere moved for the third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The Bill was voted on, read for the third time and passed.
- A Bill for an Act to Establish South West Development Commission charged with the Responsibility among other things, to receive and manage Funds from Allocation of the Federation Account, Including Donations and Gifts for the Reconstruction and Rehabilitation of Infrastructural damages suffered in the Region and to tackle the Ecological, Environmental and other Developmental challenges in the Region and for Related Matters (HB.283) –(Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Third Reading.
Debate
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere moved for the third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The Bill was voted on, read for the third time and passed.
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act, Cap. A 12, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 (as amended) to make provision for the establishment of Federal College of Agriculture, Zaria, Kaduna State and for Related Matters (HB. 2116) (Hon. Abbas Tajudeen 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. Ali Taofeek. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions.
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Universities of Agriculture Act, Cap. F22, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to make Provision for Establishment of Federal University of Agriculture, Okeho, Oyo State and for Related Matters (SB.675) (Senate) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Second Reading.
Debate
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the Committee of the Whole.
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Universities of Agriculture Act, Cap. F22, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to make Provision for Establishment of Federal University of Agriculture, Obioakpa Orukanam, Akwa Ibom State and for Related Matters (SB.720) (Senate) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Second Reading.
Debate
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the Committee of the Whole.
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the Orthopaedic Hospitals Management Board Act, Cap. O10 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2003, to provide for Establishment of Orthopaedic Hospitals Toro, Bauchi State and for Related Matters (SB.364) (Senate) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Second Reading.
Debate
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the Committee of the Whole.
- A Bill for An Act to Amend the Federal Universities of Technology Act, Cap. F23 Laws of the Federation, 2004 to Establish Federal University of Technology, Etche, Rivers State and for Related Matters, 2025. (HB.657) (Hon. Kelechi Nwogu) – Second Reading.
Second reading of the Bill stepped down by leave of the House
- A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal Institute of Information Communication Technology Idanre, Ondo State to Provide Full–Time Courses, Teaching, Instruction and Training in Information Communication Technology and to Provide for the Appointment of the Provost and other Officers of the Institute to carry out the Administration and the Discipline of Students of the Institute and for Related Matters (HB.783) (Hon. Akingbaso Festus Olanrewaju) – Second Reading.
Debate
Hon. Akingbaso Olanrewaju moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Muhammad Abdulmumin. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Digital and Information Technology.
- A Bill for an Act to Promote Information Technology Education, Entrepreneurship, and Infrastructure Development Across Nigeria’s Six Geopolitical Zones with Atisbo as the Hub for the SouthWest Zone and for Related Matters. (HB.1360) (Hon. Kareem Tajudeen Abisodun) – Second Reading
Debate
Hon. Kareem Abisodun moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Mitema Obordor. The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Digital and Information Technology.
MOTIONS
- Rescission of Clauses 9 and 14 of the North West Development Commission Bill, 2025, Clause 15 of the South East Development Commission and Clause 4 of the National Youth Service Corps Trust Fund (Establishment) Bill, 2025 pursuant to Order Nine, Rule (1) (6) of the Standing Orders of the House of Representatives:
Hon. Francis E. Waive.
The House:
Notes that the aforementioned Bills were passed by the National Assembly;
Aware of the need to rescind the provisions of Clauses 9 and 14 of the North West Development Commission Bill, 2025, Clause 15 of the South East Development Commission and Clause 4 of the National youth Service Corps Trust Fund (Establishment) Bill, 2025 to be in tandem with similar Federal Government bodies;
Cognizant of the need to incorporate the new changes into the Bills;
Resolves to:
Rescind its decisions on Clauses 9 and 14 of the North West Development Commission Bill, 2025, Clause 15 of the South East Development Commission and Clause 4 of the National Youth Service Corps Trust Fund (Establishment) Bill, 2025 and recommit the Clauses to the Committee of the Whole for reconsideration.
Debate
Hon. Francis Waive moved the motion on Rescission of Clauses 9 and 14 of the North West Development Commission Bill, 2025, Clause 15 of the South East Development Commission and Clause 4 of the National Youth Service Corps Trust Fund (Establishment) Bill, 2025 pursuant to Order Nine, Rule (1) (6) of the Standing Orders of the House of Representatives and it was seconded by Hon. Zannah Usman. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the Committee of the Whole.
- Need to Construct Earth Dam in Ramin Buzai, Kahuru, Igabi, Igabi Federal Constituency, Kaduna State:
Hon. Hussaini Mohammed Jallo:
The House:
Notes that an earth dam, also known as an embankment dam, is a type of dam constructed from natural materials like soil, gravel, and rock with a barrier built across a watercourse or valley to impound water, control flooding, and provide water storage for various uses;
Also notes that Igabi Federal Constituency is one of the major food-producing communities in Kaduna, Northwest Nigeria;
Disturbed that the Constituency frequently experience seasonal flooding, resulting in loss of lives, property, and agricultural produce due to lack of functional earth dam;
Also disturbed that the existing water sources are inadequate to meet the increasing demands of irrigation, industrial, and domestic use, as potential dry season storage water is lost thereby leading to poor harvest;
Cognizant that the earth dam, when constructed, will provide a reliable and sustainable solution to the challenges as well as provide job (farming) opportunities to thousands of inhabitants of Igabi, Sabon Garin lgabi, Kahuru, Ashafa, Gidan Malamai, Gidan Damo, Kyamfa, Runji, Wuriya, Kwankwani, Tudun Ummar, Hura, Gidan Lalli, Unguwan Bai, Unguwan Accha, Birnin Barwa, Rimaye, Fako, Ashahu, Baushe, Sarauni, Hayin malam, Sheka, and Bakin kasuwar daji Communities;
Resolves to:
(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Water Resources to conduct feasibility studies, environmental impact assessments, and community consultations to ensure the dam’s sustainability and benefits to the local population;
(ii) also urge the Federal Ministry of Water Resources to source the required funds and resources to finance the Construction of the Earth Dam Project in Ramin Buzai, Kahuru, Igabi, Igabi Federal Constituency;
(iii) mandate the Committees on Water Resources and Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance.
Debate
Hon. Hussaini Jallo moved the motion on the need to construct Earth Dam in Ramin Buzai, Kahuru, Igabi, Igabi Federal Constituency, Kaduna State and it was seconded by Hon. Mohammed Bio. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Water Resources.
- Need to revamp the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited/Nigerian Pipline Storage Company Depot, Ore, Ondo State:
Hon. Festus Ayodele Adefiranye:
The House:
Notes that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited and its subsidiary, the Nigeria Pipelines Storage Company Depot, Ore, Ondo State was commissioned in 1979 with a storage capacity of about twenty two million litres which plays a vital role in the distribution and storage of petroleum pipelines across the country by ensuring availability and price stability;
Also notes that Ore Depot, Ondo State was established to serve as a key hub for petroleum pipeline distribution to the southwest region and parts of Edo, Kwara, and Kogi States, facilitating economic activities and reducing transportation costs for marketers and consumers;
Aware that the pipelines supplying or evacuating products to the depot were either vandalized or obsolete for years without repair, thereby disrupting supply, increased costs of petroleum products, and undue hardship for Nigerians;
Also aware that the functionality of the Ore Depot will reduce unnecessary road accidents, wear and tear of vehicles, reduce the costs of fuel and diesel consumption, and operational hazards;
Worried that the continued neglect of the facility undermines the federal government’s efforts towards economic diversification, job creation, and the ease of doing business, particularly for small and medium-scale enterprises relying heavily on petroleum products;
Informed that revamping the Ore Depot will not only improve the availability and affordability of petroleum products in the southwest, it will also enhance economic activities, generate employment opportunities, and boost revenue for the government across the country;
Resolves to:
(i) urges the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited to prioritize the repair and rehabilitation of vandalized pipelines linking Ore Depot for immediate resumption of operation in the facility;
(ii) mandate the Committee on Petroleum Resources (Midstream) to liaise with relevant stakeholders and assess the current state of the Ore Depot and ensure prompt action and its restoration.
Debate
Hon. Festus Adefiranye moved the motion on the need to revamp the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited/Nigerian Pipline Storage Company Depot, Ore, Ondo State and it was seconded by Hon. Peter Aniekwe.
Hon. Mohammed Shehu proposed an amendment to refer the motion to the Ad-Hoc Committee set up by the House on the same subject matter. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the Ad-Hoc Committee on the rehabilitation of oil pipelines.
- Need to Investigate the Allegations of Abuse of Appropriation Act, Violation of Extant Laws, Rules and Directives by Leadership of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Nigerian Missions:
Hon. Aguye S. Danladi Hon. Ari Mohd Abdulmumin Hon. Ben Etanabene
Hon. T. Adelegbe Ohiozojeh Hon. Abubakar Baba Zango Hon. Peter Akpatason
Hon. Abubakar H. Fulata Hon. M. B. Shehu Fagge Hon. Zainab Gimba
Hon. Attah Thaddeus Achief Hon. Okey Joe Onuakalusi Hon. Ikwechegh A. Mascot
Hon. Sani Ibrahim Tanko Hon. Ahmed Aliyu Abdullahi Hon. Kayode Akiolu M.
Hon. Uchenna H. Okonkwo Hon. Eugene Okechukwu Hon. Aguo cha Obinna
Hon. Akintunde Rotimi Hon. Fuad Kayode Laguda, Hon. Eze Nwachukwu Eze
Hon. Richad Olufemi Bamisile Hon. Mathew Nwogu Hon. Olumide Osoba
Hon. Tijani Zanna Zakari Hon. Akintunde Rotimi Hon. Akinmoye O. Wasiu
Hon. Tolupe Akande Hon. Sam Atu Chimaobi Hon. Diabiagwu Eugene
Hon. Yusuf Rabiu Hon. Salisu Yusuf Majigiri Hon. Ahmad Yusuf Doro
Hon. Nyampa Zakari Dauda Hon. Esosa Iyawe Hon. David Fouh
Hon. Okere Chinedu Hon. Ahmed Mohammed Munir Hon. Ahmed Aliyu Bello
Hon. Abdullahí Garba Hon. Shehu Muhammad Bello Hon Sadiq Tafida
Hon. Hassan. Abubakar Nalaraba:
The House:
Notes that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is responsible for implementing Nigeria’s Foreign Policy, promoting its interests, economic relations, consular services managing trade, fostering African unity and international cooperation, upholding democratic values, and safeguarding Nigerian citizens;
Recalls that Nigeria has about 109 Diplomatic Missions abroad, with substantial funding provided to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the missions for effective implementation of its mandates;
Worried that over the past decade, the Ministry’s staff have consistently committed financial malfeasance and corruption, leading to embezzlement and corruption;
Further notes that despite the provision in the budget over a 10 year period and generation of Internally Generated Revenue, projects in Nigerian Foreign Missions in Guinea Bissau, Bata, Sao Tome and Principe, New York, Gabon, Congo Brazzaville , Conakry and other Missions have been mismanaged and abandoned. Also capital projects in Morocco, Bern, Chad, among others were illegally blocked by Director level officers in the Missions and at the Ministry Headquarters;
Also recalls that there has been a Presidential Ceiling on manpower to the Missions, however, this has repeatedly been violated by senior Officers including former Ambassadors through setting up ghost workers schemes resulting in huge financial loss for the Missions, Ministry and the Federation;
Worried that most Foreign Staff Officers were posted overseas, but their entitlements and passage allowances were denied, while assets in some missions, particularly in Liverpool, Manchester, and Edinburgh, were abused and misused;
Aware that in the Missions have been in breach of Financial Control Regulations for over a decade by refusing to remit operating surplus to the Federal Government’s Consolidated Revenue Fund, resulting in significant financial and administrative oversight.
Also aware that within the Foreign Missions there have been strong complaints of nepotism, non-payment of local staff salaries and allowances and over bloated Foreign Staff Officers in Foreign Missions;
Cognizant that if urgent steps are not taken to investigate these allegations, identify the actual problems, and the extent of harm these actions and inactions have caused the financial and reputational losses suffered by the Nigerian Government, the nation’s international image will continue to be disparaged, especially in a world where nationalism and protectionism are increasingly prevalent;
Resolves to:
mandate the Committee on Foreign Affairs to investigate the allegations and report within four (4) for further legislative action.
Debate
Hon. Suleiman Danladi moved the motion on the need to investigate the allegations of abuse of Appropriation Act, Violation of Extant Laws, Rules and Directives by Leadership of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Nigerian Missions but before it could be seconded, Hon. Ademorin Kuye raised a point of Order that the Committee on Foreign Affairs already have the mandate of the House to ensure this work is done and should not need a motion to prompt it, the Committee he stated only need to act in accordance. The motion was then stepped down by leave of the House for more legislative action.
- Need to Restore Nyamatsor Constituency of Benue State:
Hon. Sekav Dzua Iyortyom:
The House:
Notes that Nyamatsor State Constituency in Buruku Local Government Area existed among other State Constituencies in Benue State under the defunct Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1979; and made up of eight (8) Council Wards, comprising of Mbakyaan, Mbayaka, Mbaakura, MbatyoUgh, Mbaade, Mbazagee, Etulo and Shorov;
Also notes that the Nyamatsor State Constituency produced members into the Benue State House of Assembly from 1979 until the Third Republic was aborted by the Military in 1993;
Convinced that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) acted utra vires when it excluded Nyamatsor State Constituency, which existed under the 1979 Constitution of Nigeria, during the conduct of the 1999 general elections;
Aware that Section 91 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 provides that “a House of Assembly of a State shall consist of three or four times the number of seats which that State has in the House of Representatives divided in a way to reflect, as far as possible, nearly equal population”;
Also aware that Benue State which has eleven (11) seats in the House of Representatives, is expected to have at least 33 State Constituencies as each seat in the House of Representatives is expected to have 3 State Constituencies in the State House of Assembly;
Concerned that the situation in the Benue State House of Assembly and Buruku Federal Constituency is such that Benue State House of Assembly has only 32 members instead of 33 as mandated by sections 91 and 112 of the Constitution;
Worried that Buruku Federal Constituency has only one member or seat instead of three members or seats as envisaged by the 1999 Constitution in the Benue State House of Assembly;
Further aware that in 2004, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), wrote to the National Assembly to approve the restoration of the suppressed State Constituencies across the nation;
Cognizant that Section 114 (1) the Constitution of the Federal republic of Nigeria, 1999 provides for periodic review of State Constituencies, it states that the Independent National Electoral Commission shall review the division of every State into constituencies at intervals of not less than ten years, and may alter such constituencies following the provision of this section to such extent as it may consider desirable in the light of the review;
Also cognizant that the last review of State Constituencies in Nigeria by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was in 1998, resulting in the Suppression of Nyamatsor and 65 other State Constituencies;
Regrets that from 1998 till date, over twenty-seven (27) years, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has continued to suppress the Nyamatsor State Constituency and other State Constituencies across 19 States of the Federation, even after this house through a motion by Hon. Kingsley Chinda resolved and directed INEC to restore the suppressed constituencies;
Also regrets that the essence of participatory democracy is to ensure inclusive governance to bring about a balanced development in society but the people of Buruku have remained excluded and underrepresented as a result of this unconstitutional Suppression of Nyamatsor State Constituency.
Resolves to:
(i) urge the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to as a matter of urgency restore Nyamatsor State Constituency in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State to comply with extant Laws and the Provisions of Sections 91 and 112 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended);
(ii) mandate the Committees on Electoral Matters and Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance and implementation
Debate
Hon. Sekav Iyortyom moved the motion on the need to restore Nyamatsor Constituency of Benue State and it was seconded by Hon. David Agada. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Electoral Matters.
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS (HOUSE IN THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE) Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen Chaired:
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act, No. 5, 2003 to restrict the use of Foreign Vessels in Domestic Coastal and Inland Commercial activities, to Promote the Development of Indigenous Tonnage and Establish a Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund and for Related Matters (HB.1593) – (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere) Committee of the Whole: 19/11/2024.
Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere stated that the Bill seeks to develop the capacity of indigenous participation in the Nigerian shipping industry to compete favorably with their foreign counterparts. He urged Honorable Members to support it for the protection of local content Laws.
Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-45
- A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal University of Agriculture and Entrepreneurship, Bama, Borno State make Comprehensive Provisions for its Due Management and Administration and for Related Matters (SB. 186) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Committee of the Whole: 6/2/2025.
Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere stated that the Bill seeks the establishment of the proposed University of Agriculture for the development of research and learning in specialized and advanced agricultural fields for proper application in the agricultural sector and for its development. He urged Honorable Members to support it.
Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-27
- A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bida, Niger State for the purpose of providing Qualitative Education in Medicine and Health Sciences and for Related Matters (H.B. 411) (Leader) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, Owan Federal Constituency) – Committee of the Whole: 5/3/2025.
Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere stated that the Bill seeks the establishment of the proposed University of Medicine to promote research in the medical field and for promoting knowledge and social maturity of practitioners for the benefit of the Nigerian public. He again urged Honorable Members to support it.
Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-8, 10-28
Clause amended and approved: 9
- Committee on Science and Technology:
Hon. Zakariya Tijjani Zannah:
“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Science and Technology on a Bill for an Act to Amend the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) Act to Change the Use of the Word National Interest to Public Benefit and to Increase the Period Provided for a term of Contract as Prerequisite to Registration of the Document under this Act from 10 years to 20 years and strengthen the capacity of the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion to Monitor, on a continual basis, the transfer of Foreign Technology to Nigeria, encourage, regulate, and Commercialize Inventions, Innovations and Research and Development Results more effectively and enhanced diversified Representation in its governance for broader sectorial coverage and for Related Matters (HBs.1788 &1846) and approve the recommendations therein” (Laid: 17/12/2024).
Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Nweke Uche stated that the Bill seeks to amend the Principal Act to empower the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) with the ability to surmount current challenges in technology acquisition. He urged Honorable Members to support it
Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-20
- Committee on Science and Technology:
Hon. Zakariya Tijjani Zannah:
“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Science and Technology on a Bill for an Act to Repeal the Technology Business Incubation Foundation (Takeover) Act, to Provide for Establishment of the National Agency for Technology Incubation and for Related Matters (HB.1055) and approve the recommendations therein” (Laid: 17/12/2024)
Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Nweke Uche stated that the Bill seeks to Repel the 1995 Decree and Enact the current form in order to be in tandem with current realities. He again urged Honorable Members to support it.
Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-35
20. A Bill for an Act to Amend the North West Development Commissions Act and for Related Matters (SB.561) – Committee of the Whole: 12/3/2025.Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere stated that the Bill seeks to amend the Principal Act to ensure proper application of its definitive functions.
Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 9 & 14
21. A Bill for an Act to Amend the South East Development Commissions Act and for Related Matters (SB.568) – Committee of the Whole: 12/3/2025.Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere stated that the Bill simply seeks to amend the Act to insert some formerly omitted definitive functions of the Commission. He urged Honorable Members to support it.
Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 15
- A Bill for an Act to Establish the National Youth Service Corps Fund to Provide a Sustainable Source of Fund for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Skill Acquisition, Training and Empowerment of Corps Members, Training and Retraining of the Personnel of the NYSC, Development of Camps and NYSC Formations and Facilities and for Related Matters (HB.985) – Committee of the Whole: 12/3/2025.
Synopsis of the report:
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere stated that the Bill seeks to delete the source of provision of the funds in 4(1A) and take into account the sources of the other funds in order to ensure proper accountability.
Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 4
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.
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere moved a motion for the House to suspend its relevant Rules to allow it take the Third Reading of the Bills and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda.
BILLS
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the North West Development Commissions Act and for Related Matters (SB.561) – Third Reading.
Debate
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere moved for the third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The Bill was voted on, read for the third time and passed.
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the South East Development Commissions Act and for Related Matters (SB.568) – Third Reading.
Debate
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere moved for the third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The Bill was voted on, read for the third time and passed.
- A Bill for an Act to Establish the National Youth Service Corps Fund to Provide a Sustainable Source of Fund for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Skill Acquisition, Training and Empowerment of Corps Members, Training and Retraining of the Personnel of the NYSC, Development of Camps and NYSC Formations and Facilities and for Related Matters (HB.985) – Third Reading.
Debate
Hon. Julius Ihonbvere moved for the third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda. The Bill was voted on, read for the third time and passed.
Hon. Julius Inonbvere moved a motion for the House to suspend its relevant Rules to allow it adopt the votes and proceedings of the day and it was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Chinda.
House Adjournment:
The House at 13:54 adjourned plenary to Thursday, March 13th, 2025 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: LightRay! Media and Media Unit, Office of the Speaker, House of Representatives.
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