HOR : Sectoral Debate Suffers Setback

By Oduyemi Odumade

The sectoral debate organised by the I0th House of Representatives to enhance its
constitutional oversight and legislative agenda suffered a setback due to the absence of the service chiefs.

The Service Chiefs, including the Army, Navy, Defence, Airforce, and the Inspector General of Police however sent their representatives.

Reacting to this development, the Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu who expressed concern over their absence invoked the constitutional authority, emphasizing the need for them to personally appear before the parliament.

“Section 88 and 89 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria empowers the house to invite anybody in person.

“The House has extended invitation to the heads of the security agencies, not for the purpose of investigation but for dialogue and establishment of the things surrounding the sector. It behoves the agencies to send their number one officers.

Ruling on the motion, the Speaker Tajudeen Abbas who presided over plenary mandated the service chiefs to appear in person next Tuesday.

The House thereafter adjourned to the next legislative day.

Edited By Grace Namiji