Resumption of Plenary, House of Reps, Tuesday, May 6th, 2025

The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen presided.

By admin , in Inside stories , at May 6, 2025 Tags: #NASS, Ejiro Umukoro Publisher and Editor in Chief, House of Representatives, Investigative Journalism, Journalism, LightRay Media, Nigeria National Assembly

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 Thursday, March 27th, 2025.

REMARKS BY THE RT. HON. ABBAS TAJUDEEN, PhD, GCON, SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AT THE RESUMPTION OF PLENARY AFTER SALLAH AND EASTER RECESS, TUESDAY, 6TH MAY 2025.

Honourable Colleagues:
It is my distinct pleasure to welcome you all back from the Sallah and Easter recess. I trust the break afforded you the opportunity to reconnect with your families, engage with your constituents, and reflect deeply on the moral and spiritual lessons these sacred seasons inspire.
I would like to highlight the enhancement of the digital infrastructure within the chamber, which will greatly facilitate legislative activities.

Honourable colleagues, our legislative engagement before the break featured many significant milestones. Notably, this Honourable House passed the tax reform bills aimed at improving revenue generation, simplifying compliance, and encouraging investment. This achievement reflects our enduring commitment to responsible economic governance and national development.

We also demonstrated unwavering fidelity to the Constitution in our swift response to the political unrest in Rivers State. Following the President’s transmission of a Proclamation of a State of Emergency, the House acted in accordance with Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to endorse the measure. Subsequently, we inaugurated a 21-member Ad-Hoc Committee, led by the Leader of the House, to exercise oversight of the caretaker administration and safeguard democratic accountability in the state. That Committee has since commenced its engagement with stakeholders on the ground.

In the coming weeks, we shall work with the Senate to constitute a high-level Committee on Reconciliation, comprising respected national figures, to facilitate dialogue, promote peace, and support the restoration of democratic order in Rivers State and other conflict-affected regions.
In addition to these accomplishments, I am happy to mention a significant event during our recess: the first Speaker’s New Media Exchange, a pioneering initiative by the House of Representatives. We acknowledge the changing public discourse and aim to enhance Parliament’s connection with citizens, particularly engaging youth through modern platforms like digital influencers and online leaders.

Yesterday, I opened the first Legislative Conference on Renewable Energy in Lagos. Attended by Members of Parliament from Africa, sub-national governments, and industry experts, I emphasized Nigeria’s urgent need to shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy. I also outlined key federal government efforts under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and legislative initiatives from the 10th House to support this transition.

Honourable colleagues, as
we engage in vital initiatives, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges facing our nation. Sadly, our recess was marked by distressing events, including unjustified killings in Borno, Plateau, Benue, and Kwara States. The resurgence of terrorist attacks in the North-East, particularly a deadly bombing near Gamboru, has claimed many civilian lives. At the same time, communal clashes in Plateau State have also resulted in fatalities.
The House unequivocally condemns these attacks on innocent citizens. We acknowledge the need for renewed investment in security intelligence, surveillance technology, and inter-agency coordination.

On behalf of the House, I extend heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and urge our security agencies to not only bring the perpetrators to justice but also to redouble efforts to prevent further violence.
On the economic front, the International Monetary Fund concluded its 2025 Article IV consultation in Abuja. The Fund acknowledged Nigeria’s progress in discontinuing Central Bank deficit financing and ending fuel subsidies, measures that reflect growing fiscal discipline. However, it also called for sustained efforts to curb inflation and bolster external reserves. As a legislative body, we shall ensure our appropriation and oversight processes reinforce these macroeconomic objectives.

Environmental forecasts indicate that over thirty states face severe flooding during the upcoming rainy season. In anticipation, I call on all relevant committees of the House to work with the Executive branch to review the country’s emergency preparedness, propose mitigation strategies, and provide oversight over legislative frameworks on disaster risk management and climate resilience.

As we prepare to address these immediate environmental challenges, we must also focus on our longer-term legislative priorities. One such priority is the ongoing work of the House Committee on the Review of the Constitution. This Committee has been diligently engaging stakeholders across the country and is expected to achieve substantial progress in the months ahead. Our goal remains clear. We aim to commence and complete the constitutional amendment process in good time, with broad consensus and outcomes that reflect the will of the Nigerian people.

In addition, we must now move decisively to expedite the consideration and passage of critical bills that directly affect Nigerians’ stability, prosperity, and well-being. Key among these is the much-anticipated electoral reform bill, which is fundamental to strengthening our democratic processes. Furthermore, we must also prioritize legislation in areas that impact the lives of all Nigerians, including unemployment, poverty alleviation, fiscal reform, healthcare, education, and security.

As we prepare to mark the second anniversary of the 10th House of Representatives, I wish to inform this House that the coming weeks will be exceptionally busy with a series of carefully curated engagements aimed at celebrating our progress, showcasing institutional reforms, and reinforcing the connection between the Legislature and the Nigerian people.
Key among these is the Public Policy Dialogue scheduled for 12 May in Abuja. In June, we shall host a Citizens’ Engagement and Media Roundtable in Abuja and zonal media engagements in Kaduna and Lagos, respectively. The House Open Week, scheduled for 1st to 4th July, will provide further platforms for engagement and transparency.

In continuation of our efforts to strengthen public communication, a Live Media Chat on the activities of the House will also feature prominently during the anniversary week. This will enable the leadership to speak directly to Nigerians about our legislative priorities, performance, and aspirations, while receiving direct feedback from the citizens we serve.

I call on all Honourable Members to participate fully in these activities. They are not merely ceremonial. They reflect our values as the People’s House and offer critical platforms for evaluating our work, refining our agenda, and projecting our collective vision.

I equally urge the Committee on Legislative Agenda and the Committee on Monitoring and Evaluation of Standing and Ad-Hoc Committees to closely collaborate with the Office of the Speaker to ensure smooth planning, execution, and documentation of all anniversary activities.

In conclusion, honourable colleagues, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for your steadfast loyalty and support. As we prepare to mark our second anniversary, I encourage you to continue as we have begun and recommit ourselves to national service and legislative excellence.

Thank you, and may the Almighty continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Communication from Mr. Persistent:

2025 statutory budget proposal for the Federal Capital Territory. The proposal is to ensure continuous social welfare enhancement, infrastructural development, agricultural production, job creation, youth empowerment within the FCT etc. He expressed optimism that the House will accord the proposal its usual cooperation.

Defection of Honorable Members:

I. Hon. Chidi Mark Obetta (Enugu state) from Labor Party to PDP.
II. Hon. Dennis Nnamdi Agbo (Enugu state) from Labor Party to PDP.
III.Hon. Victor Nwokolo (Delta state) from PDP to APC.
IV. Hon. Julius Pondi (Delta state) from PDP to APC.
V. Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi (Delta state) from PDP to APC.
VI. Hon. Nicholas Mutu (Delta state) from PDP to APC.
VII. Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko (Delta state) PDP to APC.
VIII. Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi (Delta state) PDP to APC.

Adjustments have been made to the leadership of the House Committees on Environment, South-South Development Commission, Public Petitions etc.

MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE:

Hon. Satomi Ahmed moved a motion on the need to investigate the fire incidence within the armory of Giwa barracks in Maiduguri, Borno state as well as the continuing attacks on Borno and Yobe states and it was seconded by Hon. Abubakar Yalleman. Hon. Satomi in leading the debate stated that the upsurge in the attacks by Boko Haram in the 2 states is deeply alarming and the security forces seem to be overwhelmed.

He called for an investigation into the cause of the fire and ensure a thorough revamping of the armed forces structure to ensure they remain properly poised to withstand and overcome all such attacks.

Hon. Yusuf Gagdi in contributing to the debate stressed the importance of the motion as the attack on the armory was disheartening. He expressed worry at the fact that the insurgents carted away sophisticated military platforms, heavy tanks and armor from the armory. He further expressed concern at why the funds budgeted for security forces seems to be misplaced if Nigerians cannot sleep in safety.

Hon. Gagdi called for proper accountability on the part of the armed forces on how these cases of insecurity can continue to occur nationwide and that government must rise up to its responsibilities so that Nigerians don’t take laws into their own hands in the bid for self-protection. He commiserated with the Governor, Government and people of Borno and Yobe states on what they have been going through.

Hon. Ahmed Jaha also expressed sadness at the uninterrupted nature of these attacks on people of Borno state. He stated that the attacks on especially peasant farmers and security personnel is truly disturbing. He stated that Boko Haram has begun to use armed and weaponized drones to carry out some of these attacks. He warned against the complacency of the Nigerian security structure that has enabled Boko Haram to revive their attacks and revamp their ranks.

Hon. Zainab Gimba in her contribution expressed profound sadness and anger at the plight of Nigerians in Borno and Yobe states as a result of these unrelenting attacks by Boko Haram. She commended the civilian joint task force and hunters for trying to ensure safety of the people. She however stated that there are contradictory reports on the cause of the fire in the armory as some people stated that it was caused by an explosion within the power supply unit. She also expressed concern at the high possibility of international influence in these attacks. Hon. Gimba called for more synergy in the military/armed forces response systems. She also called for the relocation of all such armories out of major cities where such chaos can affect the civilian population.

Hon. Shettima Ali in making his contribution clarified that the pictures being circulated online is not that of the Giwa barracks in Maiduguri, but of a military base in Yobe state. He commiserated with the people and the military personnel who have died as a result of these attacks. Hon. Ali reiterated the notion of the presence of foreign influence within the ranks of Boko Haram and that the military seem to be overwhelmed in the Northeast.

He proposed an amendment to the motion calling on the House Committee on Army, Police, National Security and Intelligence to work together and find a more permanent solution to the insecurity and liaise with the Executive Arm of government in doing this.

Hon. Kabiru Ahmadu in contributing to the debate stated that more than motions and debates on the floor of the House is needed to truly tackle insecurity in Nigeria. He called for enactment of a Law where Nigerians can protect themselves from these attacks.

Hon. Babajimi Benson commiserated with the government and people of Borno and Yobe states on the attacks on their people. He expressed sadness that so much has been spent on security without the expected result. He called for the establishment of State Policing and Local Government autonomy as proposed by the Presidency. The motion was voted on, adopted as amended and referred to the House Committees on Defence, Navy, Air force, National Security and Intelligence as well as that on Army.

Hon. Aliyu Madaki moved a motion on the need to address the sad incident of jungle justice that took place on Thursday, 27th of March 2025 and it was seconded by Hon. Usman Bello Kumo. Hon. Madaki in leading the debate stated that the individuals who were hunters were traveling from Kano to Rivers state and were stopped in Edo state where 16 were brutally murdered. He stated that the people were accused of being bandits and murdered without due investigation, which is a violation of their human rights.

Hon. Madaki called for decisive response by government so that reprisal attacks do not occur and cause nationwide insecurity. He called on the Inspector General of Police and National Security Adviser to ensure Justice is done. He also praised the proactive step taken by the Edo state Governor who personally visited the Kano state Governor and people to commiserate with them.

He called on the House Committee on Police Affairs as well as that on National Security and Intelligence to investigate the issue and report back to the House within 2 weeks and that the Edo state Government should ensure compensation to the families. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Police Affairs as well as that on National Security and Intelligence.

Hon. Blessing Onuh moved a motion on the need to address the deteriorating security situation in Otukpo, Benue state and it was seconded by Hon. Fatima Talba. Hon. Onuh in leading the debate stated that the once peaceful town of Otukpo which is a commercial hub that connects the Northern to the Southern parts of Nigeria has become the theater of horrific attacks. She expressed fear of food insecurity as a result of the fear of farmers to got their farms and being attacked. She called on the National Security Adviser and other Service Chiefs to deploy security personnel to restore peace to the region and apprehend the perpetrators. Hon. Onuh also called on the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to provide assistance to the affected persons.

Hon. Ali Isa in his contribution stated that all the motions taken highlight the serious need for security. He stated that Section 14(2) of the Constitution states that security and welfare of Nigerians should remain paramount and called on the Federal Government to ensure Nigerians live in peace, safety and progress. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Humanitarian Affairs as well as that on Security Affairs.

Hon. Ahmad Badau moved a motion on the need for government to provide urgent security protection for Nigerians in Shanono area of Kano state and it was seconded by Hon. David Idris. Hon. Badau in leading the debate stated that on April 17th, 2025 armed bandits carried out attacks on the region but were repelled by the community members. He however stated that these attacks have become too frequent.

He called on the relevant authorities to ensure the attacks are contained and that the House Committee on Police Affairs as well as that on other relevant security Matters should ensure compliance. The motion was voted on, adopted and referred to the House Committee on Defense as well as that on Police Affairs.

PRESENTATION OF BILLS

Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2152) (Hon. Sada Soli) – First Reading.
Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods and Drinks (Miscellaneous Provision) Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2153) (Hon Sada Soli) – First Reading.
Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2025 (transfer the item dealing with Public holidays from the Exclusive Legislative) (HB.2242) (Hon. Mukhtar Zakari Chawai) – First Reading.
National Bio-Technology Research Institute, Kauru, Kaduna State Bill, 2025 (HB.2244) (Hon. Mukhtar Zakari Chawai) – First Reading
Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Alteration) Bill, 2025 (Creation of Ughelli East Local Government Area in Delta State) (HB.2248) (Hon. Francis Ejiroghene Waive) – First Reading.
National Assembly Service Pension Board Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2240) (Hon. Abbas Tajudeen) – First Reading.
Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2025 (HB.2279) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere) – First Reading.
Chartered Institute of Business Psychology of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2277) (Hon. Daniel Asama Ago) – First Reading.
Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Bichi (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2278) (Hon. Abubakar Kabir Bichi and Hon. Usman Bello Kumo) – First Reading.
National Metallurgical Training Institute, Apomu (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2246) (Hon. Lanre Omoleye Oladebo) – First Reading.
Institute of Vocational and Technical Studies, Aniocha, Delta State (Establishment) Bill, 2025. (HB.2142) (Hon. Ngozi Okolie) – First Reading.
Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2025 (HB.2281) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere) – First Reading.
Federal Universities of Technology Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2282) (Hon. Abbas Tajudeen) – First Reading.
Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2025 (HB.2280) (Hon. Julius Ihonvbere) – First Reading.
Administration of Criminal Justice Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2262) (Hon Oladebo Lanre Omoleye) – First Reading.
Nigerian Youths Trust Fund (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2148) (Hon. Donald Ojogo) – First Reading.
Institute of Chartered Applied Information Management Professionals of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2215) (Hon. Gaza Jonathan Gbefwi) – First Reading.
National Groundnut Production, Processing and Research Institute, Kankia, Katsina State (Establishment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2250) (Hon. Abubakar Yahaya Kusada) – First Reading.
Bank Employees Etc (Declaration of Asset) Acts (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2259) (Hon. Oladebo Lanre Omoleye) – First Reading.
National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Acts (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (HB.2260) (Hon. Oladebo Lanre Omoleye) – First Reading.

House Adjournment:

The House at 13:16 adjourned plenary to Wednesday, May 7th, 2025 by 11:00 A.M following a motion for adjournment moved by the Deputy Leader of the House, Hon. Abdullahi Halims and seconded by the Minority Whip, Hon. Ali Isa.