House Mandates MDAs To Follow Due Process

By Oduyemi Odumade

The House of Representatives has urged Ministries Departments and Agencies to ensure that they carry out their duties in accordance with the laws of the land.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Delegated Legislation, Mr. Femi Bamisile who made this announcement during the committee’s inaugural meeting in Abuja said this would ensure the effective performance of the MDAs.

He emphasized that the committee has been entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that these agencies perform their lawmaking functions in alignment with enabling acts, thereby promoting transparency, accountability, and general welfare of the Nigerian people.

Mr. Bamisile explained that delegated legislation refers to laws made by bodies other than the parliament, but under the authority derived from the parliament.

“This process allows for a streamlined and efficient approach to lawmaking, as it empowers specialized agencies with technical expertise to create laws that align with the broader objectives set out by the legislature.

During the meeting, Bamisile highlighted the significance of the committee’s authority, citing Section 62(1) of the Constitution, which outlines the workings of the House of Representatives.

According to this provision, the house is mandated to sit in committees to carry out its functions.

“This underscores the importance of committees in the legislative process, as they enable in-depth analysis and scrutiny of legislations.

Bamisile further emphasized that subsidiary legislations are often highly specialized and technical in nature, requiring expert knowledge and experience.

Recognizing that lawmakers cannot be expected to possess such intricate expertise in every field, delegated legislation therefore delegates this power to agencies and bodies that possess the necessary technical understanding.

As a committee, their role is to ensure that these specialized laws are made within the confines of the enabling acts, adhering to due process, and safeguarding the rights and interests of the Nigerian people.

Edited By Grace Namiji