News
Plenary proceedings of the House of Representatives for Thursday, December 8th, 2022
Plenary proceedings of the House of Representatives for Thursday, December 8th, 2022
The Speaker of the House, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila presided.
After leading the opening prayers and the National Pledge, the Speaker approved the votes and proceedings of Wednesday, December 7th, 2022
Communication From the President:
- Transmission of the Federal Government of Nigeria Power Company budget, 2022. He hoped for normal cooperation between the Executive and the Legislature on such matters.
The communication was referred to the relevant Committees of the House
PETITIONS
- Rep. Olododo Cook laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against a company ;6 the illegal execution of some projects without due authorization.
- Rep. Wole Oke laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against the Chief Medical Director of the National Hospital, Abuja on allegations of fraud, abuse of power and manipulation.
Both petitioners called on the House to please intervene on their respective issues to resolve them.
Both petitions were referred to the House Committee on Public Petitions
MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE
- Rep. Magaji Da’u Aliyu moved a motion on the urgent need for the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to rescind its decision on the cash withdrawal limit policy and it was seconded by Rep. Nnolim Nnaji.
Rep. Magaji in leading the debate stated that the maximum proposed amount limits for withdraws reeled out by the CBN for over-the-counter, POS or ATM withdrawals will be detrimental to most Nigerians, especially those in the rural areas who trade in farm products and other goods through cash where there is low internet connectivity for cashless transactions. Rep. Magaji called on the House to invite the CBN governor to come and brief the House on how the policy can address these problems. He further called for more advocacy on the part of the CBN with other key stakeholders, and that there should be at least one year’s notice before such a policy of sweeping change should be implemented. He stated that within the one-year notice adequate infrastructural facilities should be put in place before trying to implement such a sweeping decision.
Rep. Aminu Suleiman termed as harsh and draconian the fact that there was not enough time notice for the implementation of such a policy, especially in many rural parts of Nigeria. He stressed that the hasty implementation of such a policy is capable of eroding the many achievements made for the ease of doing business in Nigeria. Rep. Suleiman called on the House to liaise with the Senate to use its legislative powers and tools to kick against such an anti-people proposed policy of the CBN.
Rep. Ndudi Elumelu stated that the proposed policy which promotes a cashless Nigerian society will make it hard for bandits and kidnappers to demand and get huge cash amounts for ransom from victims and their families. He stated that the pros of the policy far outweigh the cons.
The Speaker of the House, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila reminded Rep. Elumelu that a high percentage of Nigerians, almost half of the population are not captured in the banking system, which makes it akin to putting the cart before the horse.
Rep. Nnolim Nnaji stated that the proposed CBN policy on cash withdrawal limit is against commerce as the market needs spending to increase the indices of wealth creation.
Rep. Dachung Bagos supported the proposed CBN policy as it will reduce indices of corruption and insecurity. He however called on the CBN Governor to come before the House and provide information on how the policy will economically benefit Nigerians as a whole.
Rep. Mark Gbillah rising under a matter of privilege cited Section 8(4) of the CBN Acts which mandates the CBN Governor to appear periodically and make reports on proposed and enacted policies to the National Assembly. In light of this, the CBN Governor has breached this provision which means the House has the purview to address the statutory breach. Rep. Gbillah wondered how the CBN was actually able to change the currency of the country without appropriation from Parliament.
The Speaker of the House, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila agreed with the position and stated that it works in tandem with the resolution of the motion.
Rep. Benjamin Kalu reiterated the position postulated by Rep. Mark Gbillah and stressed the need to invite the CBN Governor to come to brief the House on the breach being discussed.
Rep. Julius Ihonvbere stated that the proposed CBN policy is not in touch with the reality on the ground in Nigerian communities which mostly have no banks, Internet connection, ATMs or POS spots. He wondered why the CBN Governor seems to be brandishing powers beyond the Parliament or the Presidency. He called on the House to live up to its responsibility to Nigerians and ensure only people-friendly policies are enacted by the government.
Rep. Victor Mela who is a member of the House Committee on Banking and Currency clarified that at no time did the CBN Governor come before the Committee to explain proposed or implemented policies.
Rep. Dennis Amadi stated that India had tried this proposed policy and it ended up being detrimental to its economy. He stated that any attempt for the CBN to enforce this policy would be draconian and dictatorial.
The Speaker of the House, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila stressed the importance of ensuring full compliance with the CBN Act. The singular prayer of the motion should be for the CBN Governor to appear before the House on Thursday, 15th December 2022 at 11:00 Am.
Rep. Ibrahim Olanrewaju reminded the House that the CBN had given a deadline for the proposed policy to come into effect. He proposed an amendment that the House should resolve that the CBN should not go ahead with the implementation of the proposed policy until the CBN Governor has appeared before the House and it was seconded by Rep. Chinedu Ogah.
The motion was voted on and adopted as amended to accommodate this second prayer.
- Rep. Leke Abejide moved a motion on the need to investigate Heads of Agencies awarding and executing funded projects without due process, a case study of the Head of the Nigeria Directorate for Employment.
Rep. Abejide in leading the debate stated that many Heads of Agencies blatantly award these contracts in violation of the budgetary processes. He called on the House Committee on Labor and Productivity and that on Procurement to investigate the issue and get back to the House for further legislative action.
Rep. Olu Oke stated that the House Committee on Labor has laid a report on this same issue and the Attorney General of the Federation also came before the House Committee on Public Accounts to consider the issue and that the report is ready to be laid before the House.
Given this, the Speaker of the House, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila asked that the motion can then be stepped down and the matter followed up through the report.
- Rep. Robert Tyough moved a motion on urgent need to construct a police post in his community in Benue state due to continuous insecurity and it was seconded by Rep. Ndudi Elumelu.
Rep. Tyough in leading his debate stated that he had earlier brought a similar motion, but nothing had been done on the construction of the Police post. He decried the fact that bandits have continued to take advantage of the lack of such manned posts to attack commuters and recently murdered an individual. He called for the urgent constitution of the police post to avoid such occurrences.
The motion was voted on and adopted
- Rep. Victor Mela moved a motion on the need to address the incessant killings of citizens and destruction of properties in communities of Gombe state and it was seconded by Rep. Samuel Adejare.
Rep. Mela stated that the activities of bandits and cattle rustlers have continued unabated in these communities, which is highly worrisome. He expressed deep sadness that the same rustlers who were apprehended earlier, seem to have been released and came back to the same town twice in a week, stealing over 30 cows and shooting sporadically killing several people without being apprehended by the security personnel. Rep. Mela called for more decisive actions to be taken against these criminals who keep attacking vulnerable and defenceless peasant farmers. He called on the Inspector General of Police to increase police presence in the region. He further called on the National Emergency Management Agency and the North East Development Commission to come to the aid of the victims.
The Deputy Speaker of the House, Rep. Ahmed Idris called for the community to strengthen ties with the security forces and collaborate with them for the safety of citizens in the region. This approach he stated has aided a lot of other communities to overcome bandits and cattle rustlers.
The motion was voted on and adopted.
PRESENTATION OF REPORTS
- Committee on Health Care Services:
Rep. Yusuf Tanko Sununu:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Healthcare Services on a Bill for an Act to Introduce Preventive Measures and Teaching of Breast and Cervical Cancers into the Curriculum of a Compulsory Subject (Civic Education) for Senior Secondary Schools in Nigeria; and for Related Matters” (HB.1932) (Referred: 20/7/2022)
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Samuel Adejare and seconded by Rep. Abdulganiyu Johnson
- Committee on Health Care Services:
Rep. Yusuf Tanko Sununu:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Healthcare Services on a Bill for an Act to Establish the Institute of Physician Associates of Nigeria charged with responsibility for Determining the Standards of Knowledge and Skills to be Attained by Persons seeking to become Physician Associate Professionals; and for Related Matters (HB.1966) (Referred 22/6/2022).
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Samuel Adejare and seconded by Rep. Abdulganiyu Johnson
- Committee on Health Care Services:
Rep. Yusuf Tanko Sununu:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Healthcare Services on a Bill for an Act to Repeal the Anatomy Act, Cap. A16, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and Enact the Anatomy Bill, 2022 to Provide for Establishment of Anatomy Council of Nigeria, bring the Practice of Anatomy in conformity with current Local and Global Realities; and for Related Matters (HB.1637) (Referred 28/6/2022).
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Samuel Adejare and seconded by Rep. Abdulganiyu Johnson
- Committee on Health Care Services:
Rep. Yusuf Tanko Sununu:
“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Healthcare Services on a Bill for an Act to Repeal the Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, Cap. C34, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and make Comprehensive Provisions for the Prohibition and Control of Counterfeit Medical Products, Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods; and for Related Matters (HB.1666) (Referred 30/3/2022).
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Samuel Adejare and seconded by Rep. Abdulganiyu Johnson
5.Committee on Public Accounts:
Rep. Oluwole Oke.
“That the House do receive the Report of the Committee on Public Accounts on the Deliberate and Reckless Refusal by Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government to render Audited Accounts for the periods 2014–2018 and 2019–2021 to the Auditor–General for the Federation” (Referred: 10/12/2019).
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Wole Oke and seconded by Rep. Zakaria Nyampa
ORDERS OF THE DAY
BILLS
- A Bill for an Act to Establish National Assembly Library Trust Fund for the Purpose of Research, Provision of Library Equipment and Related Facilities, Enhance the Research of Legislators and Staff of the National Assembly; and for Related Matters (HB.987) – Third Reading.
Debate
Rep. Mohammed Monguno moved for the Third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Shettima Alli.
The Bill was voted on and read the third time.
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the Pension Reform Act, 2014 to Exclude/Exempt the National Assembly Service from the Contributory Pension Scheme and Establish the National Assembly Service Pension Board; and for Related Matters (HB. 2025) – Third Reading.
Debate
Rep. Mohammed Monguno moved for the Third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Shettima Alli.
The Bill was voted on and read the third time.
- A Bill for an Act to Provide for Establishment of University of Maritime Studies, Oron, Akwa Ibom State; and for Related Matters (HB. 1595) – Third Reading.
Debate
Rep. Mohammed Monguno moved for the Third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Shettima Alli.
The Bill was voted on and read the third time.
- A Bill for an Act to Repeal the Insurance Act, Cap. I,17 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and Enact the Insurance Bill, 2020 to Provide a Comprehensive Legal Framework for Insurance Business in Nigeria; and for Related a Comprehensive Legal Framework for Insurance Business in Nigeria; and Matters (HB. 967) – Third Reading.
Debate
Rep. Mohammed Monguno moved for the Third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Shettima Alli.
The Bill was voted on and read the third time.
- A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal University of Agriculture and Technology, Orerokpe to identify the agricultural and technological problems and needs of Nigeria to find solution within the context of the overall National Development; and for Related Matters (HB. 663) – Third Reading.
Debate
Rep. Mohammed Monguno moved for the Third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Shettima Alli.
The Bill was voted on and read the third time.
- A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal College of Education (Technical) Ajegunle, Ogun State and for Related Matters (HB.1969) – Third Reading.
Debate
Rep. Mohammed Monguno moved for the Third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Shettima Alli.
The Bill was voted on The Bill was voted on and read the third time.
- A Bill for an Act to Establish Nigeria Hunters and Forest Security Service (NHFSS) to Prevent, Combat Forest Crimes and enhance Security within Nigerian Forests; and for Related Matters (HB.1993) – Third Reading.
Debate
Rep. Mohammed Monguno moved for the Third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Shettima Alli.
The Bill was voted on and read the third time.
- A Bill for an Act to Repeal the Audit Ordinance of 1956, and Enact Federal Audit Service Bill, 2022 to Establish Federal Audit Service, Provide Additional Powers and Functions of the Auditor-General for the Federation, Establish the Federal Audit Board; and for Related Matters (HB.399) – Third Reading.
Debate
Rep. Mohammed Monguno moved for the Third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Shettima Alli.
The Bill was voted on and read the third time.
- A Bill for an Act to Provide for Establishment of Nigeria National Commission against the Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons to Coordinate and Implement activities to combat the Problem of the Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons in Nigeria in Line with the Economic Community of West African States Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons; and for Related Matters (HB.10) – Third Reading.
Debate
Rep. Mohammed Monguno moved for the Third reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Shettima Alli.
The Bill was voted on and read the third time
- A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal University of Sports, Nkalagu, Ebonyi State; and for Related Matters (HB. 1814) (Senate)
Bill stepped down by leave of the House
- A Bill for an Act to Provide for Establishment of Federal Medical Centre, Onitsha; and for Related Matters (HB. 2059) (Senate) – Second Reading.
Second reading of the Bill stepped down by leave of the House
- A Bill for an Act to Establish National Cereals Research Institute, Badeggi, Niger State to be saddled with responsibilities of Teaching and conducting Research on Cereals and other Agricultural Produce to Promote Cultivation, Processing and Exportation of Cereals in Nigeria and issue Certificates; and for Related Matters (HB.2081) (Rep. Abdullahi Mamudu) – Second Reading.
Second reading of the Bill stepped down by leave of the House
- A Bill for an Act to Amend the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, No. 4 of 2015 to include the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development in its Governing Board, review the mode of Appointing the Director-General of the Agency to strengthen the Act by reviewing the Offences and penalty Provision; and for Related Matters (HB.2102) (Rep. John Dyegh and Rep. Stephen Azaiki) –Second Reading.
Debate
Rep. John Dyegh moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Beni Lar.
The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Human Rights.
_____________________________________________________________________________
MOTION
- Urgent Need to Restore the Accreditation of JAMB-CBT Center at MBATO Secondary School Umungalagu Eziama Nvosi, in Isiala Ngwa North/South Federal Constituency, Abia State:
Rep. Darlington Nwokocha:
The House:
Notes that the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Act, confers on JAMB responsibilities to conduct matriculation examinations for entry into all Universities, Polytechnics and Colleges of Education;
Also notes that section 5 of the JAMB Act, mandates JAMB to regulate and manage matters incidental to the administration of the matriculation examinations;
Recalls that the Edward and Mercy Nwokocha CBT Center with accreditation number UTME2022/O1006007 at Mbato Secondary School Umungalagu Eziama Nvosi, in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government of Abia State was among the CBT Centers duly approved by the JAMB to cater for candidates for the matriculation examinations in Abia State;
Observes as reported, that the JAMB recently without a fair hearing, removed the Edward and Mercy Nwokocha CBT Center from the lists of Centers available for the matriculation examinations in Abia State, thus jeopardizing the educational hopes of candidates in Isiala Ngwa North/South Federal Constituency who depend on the model, brand new and well equipped Center for their examinations;
Aware that the Edward and Mercy Nwokocha CBT Center, Eziama Nvosi is the only JAMB-accredit CBT Center that services candidates in Isiala Ngwa North/South and environs who before now travels over 50kilometres to take part in the matriculation examinations with its attendant security challenges and high logistics costs.
Cognizant of the need to promptly restore the accreditation of the CBT Center to save thousands of rural candidates in Isiala Ngwa North/South Federal Constituency and environs from the psychological and mental torture of exclusion and unwarranted difficulties in accessing model centers for the JAMB Computer-Based Tests (CBT).
Resolves to:
(i) urge the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to restore the full accreditation of the Edward and Mercy Nwokocha CBT Center to participate in the 2023 JAMB registration activities and matriculation examinations;
(ii) mandate the Committee on Tertiary Education and Services to investigate the JAMB Computer Based Test (CBT) Centers accreditation and de-accreditation program to unravel the problems contained therein, and to report back within two (2) weeks for further legislative action.
Debate
Rep. Darlington Nwokocha moved a motion on the urgent need to restore the accreditation of JAMB-CBT center at MBATO secondary school Umungalagu Eziama Nvosi, in Isiala Ngwa North/South Federal constituency, Abia state and it was seconded by Rep. Fatoba Steve. Rep. Nwokocha stated that the absence of this center now poses a security risk as well as high traveling/ logistics cost to pupils who have to travel far to participate in the exams.
The motion was voted on and adopted.
_____________________________________________________________________________
CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS (HOUSE IN THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE ) Rep. Ahmed Idris Wase Chaired:
- A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun, Osun State as a Training Institute for the Development of Medical and Health Sciences and make comprehensive Provisions for the Management and Administration of the University; and for Related Matters (HB. 2101) – Committee of the Whole:7/12/2022.
Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-31
- Committee on Tertiary Education and Services:
Rep. Aminu Suleiman.
“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Tertiary Education and Services on a Bill for an Act to Provide for Establishment of Federal University of Education, Katsina-Ala; and for Related Matters (HB.539) and approve the recommendations therein” (Laid: 2/2/2022).
Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-26
- Committee on Tertiary Education and Services:
Rep. Aminu Suleiman.
“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Tertiary Education and Services on a Bill for an Act to Establish Federal College of Education, Idere to Provide Full-Time Courses Teaching Instructions and Training in Technology, Applied Science, Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Management and to Provide for the Appointment of Provost and other Officers of the College to carry out the Administration and Discipline of Students of the College; and for Related Matters (HB. 309) and approve the recommendations therein” (Laid: 29/6/2020).
Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-29
- Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions:
Rep. Munir Babba Dan Agundi.
“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions on a Bill for an Act to Establish the Federal College of Agriculture (Technical) Enugwu-Ukwu, Anambra State, to Provide Full-Time Courses, Teaching Instructions and Training in Agricultural Technology and carry out it’s Due Administration and Management; and for Related Matters (HB. 1261) and approve the recommendations therein” (Laid: 29/6/2020).
Consideration of report stepped down by leave of the House
- Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions:
Rep. Munir Babba Dan Agundi.
“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions on a Bill for an Act to Establish Federal University of Agriculture Ugbawka, Nkanu East, Enugu State to make Comprehensive Provisions for its Due Management and Administration; and for Related Matters (HB.1014) and approve the recommendations therein” (Laid:29/6/2022).
Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-32
- Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions:
Rep. Munir Babba Dan Agundi.
“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions on a Bill for an Act to Establish Federal Institute of Fisheries Research, Ogidigben, Delta State for Fishery Research, Education and Cooperative Training in Nigeria and to make Comprehensive Provisions for its Due Management and Administration; and for Related Matters (HB.1278) and approve the recommendations therein” (Laid: 29/6/2022).
Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-22
- Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions:
Rep. Munir Babba Dan Agundi.
“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions on a Bill for an Act to Establish College of Agriculture, Geidam, Yobe State to Provide full-time courses leading to the award of Diploma, Higher National Diploma in Agriculture and allied disciplines and be responsible for the due Administration of the College; and for Related Matters (HB.1277) and approve the recommendations therein” (Laid: 29/6/2022).
Synopsis of the report:
Rep. Shettima Alli standing in for Rep. Munir Dan Agundi stated that the Bill seeks to boost agricultural production for the purpose of increasing its contributions as a sector of the economy. It also seeks to improve courses of learning in agriculture and technology application, as well as to benefit Nigerians in the region.
Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-22
- Committee on Health Institutions:
Rep. Pascal Obi:
“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Health Institutions on a Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Medical Centres Act, 2022 to Establish Federal Medical Centre, Gumel, Jigawa State; and for Related Matters (HB.1665) and approve the recommendations therein” (Laid: 29/9/2022).
Summary of voting:
Clauses voted on and approved: 1-3
- Committee on Public Accounts:
Rep. Oluwole Oke.
“That the House do consider the Report of the Committee on Public Accounts on the Deliberate and Reckless Refusal by Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government to render Audited Accounts for the periods 2014–2018 and 2019–2021 to the Auditor–General for the Federation and approve the recommendations therein” (Laid: 8/12/2022).
GENERAL FINDINGS 2014 – 2018
The Committee found that:-
(i) some Agencies complained that the Procurement Process of hiring their External Auditors can be cumbersome, which is the reason for operating during these periods without being audited.
(ii) Gross negligence on the part of the Directors of Finance & Accounts/Bursars in some Agencies in ensuring the accounts are Audited as at when due.
(iii) delay in approving/signing of Audited Accounts by the Governing Council/Board
(iv) delay in the appointment of Governing Council/Board delays auditing process.
(v) some incumbent Chief Accounting Officers refused to sign Audited Accounts prepared by Former Accounting Officers. This act denied the Agencies the opportunity to submit same to the Office of the Auditor General as at when due.
(vi) some Supervisory Ministries neglect their duty of oversight over the accounting processes of Departments and Agencies under their jurisdiction.
(vii) lack of synergy between the DFA/Bursar and the Chief Executive officer in Public Finance Management led to defect in rendering the audited account.
(viii) negligence by some Accounting Officers of Agencies in ensuring Chairmen and Board Members/Directors endorse/sign the Audited Accounts to enable compliance with extant laws.
(ix) some Agencies submitted to the Committee unsigned Audited Accounts.
(x) some Departments and Agencies are ignorant of the Extant Law requiring them to submit Copies of Audited Accounts to the Office of the Auditor General.
(xi) the Office of the Auditor General sometimes did not deem it necessary to send reminders to the Agencies to comply with Extant Laws.
(xii) some Letters evidencing remittance of Audited Accounts to the Office of the Auditor General had either faint or no acknowledgement of receipt stamp.
(xiii) attendance showed that some Accounting Officers and in other cases Directors of Finance/Bursars were absent at the Public Hearing Sessions.
(xiv) some Agencies provided insufficient copies of documents/information due to lack of funds. This hindered Honourable Members and Secretariat Staff from analysing the records.
(xv) some Agencies produced false information in their documents and provided different answers when cross examined by the Committee.
(xvi) in its quest for the truth and accuracy, the Committee directed some Agencies to re-appear before it with Former Chief Accounting Officers, Heads of Accounts Department and External Auditors, but the Agencies could not locate them due to one reason or the other e.g. No forwarding addresses, demise or incapacitation. This limited the efforts of the Committee to get to the bottom of the matter.
(xvii) in the course of the Public Hearing, it was observed that there are provisions in some acts (establishing these MDA’s) that are contrary to the provisions of Sections 88 and 89 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. These acts mandate MDAs to submit their audited accounts to supervisory bodies instead of the Office of the Auditor General for the Federation. Notably amongst them is the provision of the Federal Mortgage Bank Act which mandates this Bank to submit its audited account to Central Bank of Nigeria. These acts must be amended to curb such mandate.
(xviii) some Agencies alleged that the Secretariat of the Auditor General for the Federation is reckless and deliberately rejects Audited Accounts submitted by the Agencies. The Auditor General for the Federation should be advised to clearly define the duties of his officers that are in charge of receiving Audited Accounts from Agencies.
(xix) some Agencies are headed by negligent and unprofessional Officers. They fail to adequately discharge their duties as Chief Executive Officer of the establishment.
(xx) some Agencies appeared before the Committee with incomplete documents. E.g. Audited Accounts but no evidence of remittance of same to the Office of the Auditor General for the Federation.
(xxi) some Agencies blatantly refused to honour the invitation extended to them by the Committee.
(xxii) some Agencies tendered letters requesting re-scheduling of their appearance before the Committee, hence frustrating the investigation process.
(xxiii) some Agencies submitted their Audited Account late to the Auditor-General of the Federation.
(xxiv) some Agencies engage External Auditors late, leaving them with backlog of un-Audited Accounts to clear.
(xxv) some Agencies do not pay their External Auditors regularly, hence encouraging lackadaisical attitude toward timely auditing of accounts.
(xxvi) some External Auditors over-stay their tenure of Retention.
Recommendation for 2014 -2018
(i) that all Ministries, Departments and Agencies should be directed to submit their audited account on or before 31st May every year.
(ii) that the Board or Governing Council Meeting should be convened to sign audited accounts immediately after it is submitted by the External Auditors.
(iii) that in the absence of a Board or Governing Council, the Supervising body of the MDAs should sign audited accounts in order to avoid delay in rendition to the Office of the Auditor-General.
(iv) that No. outgoing CEO should exit Office without duly completing the process of audited accounts, signed and rendered to the Office of the Auditor-General.
(v) that there should be, from time to time, a Seminar organized for the CEOs and their DFAs/Bursar on the need for timely rendition.
(vi) that the Office of the Auditor-General should acknowledge receipt of any rendition by clearly and properly stamping, endorsing and dating it.
(vii) that under no circumstance should a provision of MDA’s Act be contrary to the provision of sections 85, 88 and 89 of the Constitution. Section 85 of the Constitution and the Audit Circular mandate MDAs to submit their audited accounts to the Office of the Auditor-General.
(viii) that the Executive Arm of Government should compel MDAs to respect and honour invitations by the legislative Arm of Government.
(ix) Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA)
that the reckless and deliberate refusal by the Management of the Agency to render their audited accounts for the past five years (2005 – 2019) is a violation of Section 85 (3) (b) of the 1999 Constitution. All those in Office that were responsible should be disciplined and referred to the EFCC in line with Financial Regulation 3129 of 2009.
(x) Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN)
that the Authority of FAAN should be cautioned to desist from the late rendition of their audited accounts to the Auditor General Office.
(xi) Nigeria Bulk Electricity Transmission (NBET)
that the Managing Director and the officers involved should be sanctioned accordingly for flagrant violation of Section 85 (3) (b) of the Constitution for not submitting the Agency’s audited accounts to the Auditor General for the Federation from 2012 to 2019.
(xii) Security and Exchange Commission
that the Agency failed to render its audited accounts from the year 2014 – 2018. All officers of the Commission involved in non-compliance should be sanctioned accordingly.
(xiii) Petroleum Equalization Management Board
that the Board could not submit its 2017 and 2018 audited accounts while in year 2020. This Act infringes on Section 85 (3) (b) of the Constitution. All officers involved should be sanction in line with FR 3129.
(xiv) National Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF)
that the Committee frowned at the worrisome attitude of the Agency for refusing to render its audited accounts for the last 13 years, yet benefited from the Federal Treasury. All the Director-Generals and DFAs as well as the various External Auditors from 2006 to 2019 should be handed over to the EFCC in line with FR No. 3129 for prosecution accordingly.
(xv) Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria
that all the former MDs, DFAs and External Audited from 2013 to 2018 that are involved in the non-rendition of audited accounts should be handed over to EFFCC and sanctioned accordingly.
(xvi) Federal Housing Authority
that the Authority submitted audited accounts last in 2003. The Agency could not provide proof for the rendition of 2014 audited accounts. This act negates Section 85 (3) (6) of the Constitution. Therefore all former MDAs, DFAs and External Auditors should be handed over to the EFCC and sanctioned accordingly.
(xvii) Nigeria Integrated Water Resources
that the Agency could not tender documents on rendition of audited accounts since its inception in 2009. All former DGs, DFAs as well as the present Ag. DG should be sanctioned. The EFCC should prosecute all found responsible in accordance with the law.
(xviii) Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta
that the former Vice Chancellor, former Bursar and present Vice Chancellor should be sanctioned and handed over to EFCC for non-rendition of 2016 – 2018 audited accounts.
(xix) Federal University of Technology Owerri
for delay in rendition of 2011 – 2014 and for non-rendition of 2016 – 2018, the Vice Chancellor and the Bursar should be sanctioned.
(xx) University of Calabar
that the former Vice Chancellor, former Bursars, present Vice Chancellor and his Bursar should be sanctioned and handed over to EFCC for non-rendition of audited accounts to the Office of the Auditor General from 2012 to 2018.
(xxi) Nigeria Communication Satellite (NigComSat)
that the MD and DFA of the Agency should be sanctioned and handed over to the EFCC for non-rendition of 2014 – 2016 audited accounts.
(xxii) Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC)
that the former DG and DFA, and also the present DG and DFA should be sanctioned and handed over to the EFCC for non-rendition of 2015–2018 audited accounts to the Office of the Auditor General.
(xxiii) National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)
that all Officers responsible for the non-rendition of 2014–2018 audited accounts of the agency should be sanctioned in line with FR 3129.
(xxiv) Nigeria Customs Service
that the Committee invited the DG of the Bureau of Public Procurement to appear before it to clarify the position of the Customs Service. The Service was asked to make all copies of their correspondences to BPE (Bureau of Public Enterprises) for clarification. Up to the time of writing this report, the service has not complied with the directive, the Custom Service should therefore be warned to desist from disrespecting the rulings of the House Committees. And appropriate disciplinary measures be taken against them in order to curb future disrespect to the Parliament.
(xxv) Abuja Investment Company
that this Agency has no record of rendition except for 2014 which was rendered to the Office of the Auditor-General in 2020. All former MDs, former DFAs, and the present MD and his DFA should be sanctioned and handed over to the EFCC for prosecution in line with the extant law.
(xxvi) Oil & Gas Free Zone Authority, Onne, River State
that all renditions from 2014 to 2017 were done in 2020. It took the Company 6 years to submit 2014 audited accounts. This is a constitutional breach and gross misconduct. All those responsible for the delay in remission of the audited accounts, as at when due, should be sanctioned in line with FR 3129. And they should be handed over to the EFCC.
(xxvii) Administrative Staff College, Badagry, Lagos State
that the College never rendered any audited accounts to the Office of the Auditor General from 2012 to date. The Committee recommended that the former DG of the College, the former External Auditors, the Chairman and Members of the Board should be sanctioned in line with FR No. 3129.
(xxviii) Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN)
that the Company has never rendered its audited accounts to the Auditor General for the Federation since its inception in 2013 to date. All those responsible should be sanctioned in line with Financial Regulation No. 3129.
(xxix) that the following Institutions/Agencies should be warned and sanctioned for delay and for non-rendition of their audited accounts to the Auditor General Office respectively.
(a) Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency
(b) University of Jos
(c) University of Ilorin
(d) Federal Medical Centre, Umualia
(e) Federal University of Technology, Akure
(f) Federal University, Gusau
(g) Husseini Adamu Federal Polytechnic, Kazaure
(h) Federal College of Education, Asaba
(i) Federal College of Education, Obudu
(j) University of Agriculture, Makurdi
(k) Federal Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti
(l) Federal Medical Centre, Lokoja
(m) National Medical Research, Lagos
(n) Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo State
(o) National Institute for Pharmaceutical
(p) Research, Idu, Abuja
(xxx) that all Chief Accounting Officers of the 54 Government Agencies listed on pages 4 – 6 that refused to appear to defend their positions during the Public Hearing without any written reason, prominent among them are; Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), NDDC, Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission etc., should be issued warrant of arrest to compel their appearance to respond to the matter within a week in line with section 89 (d) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).
(xxxi) urge the House to Consider the Committee’s findings and approve the recommendations as contained therein;
(xxxii) further to the latest submissions by the Auditor General for the Federation on the rendition of Accounts by Agencies and Institutions of government covering the 2019–2020 financial years, the House may wish to direct the Committee to further carry out an investigation on all the agencies listed in the submission.
Recommendations for 2019 -2021
(i) urge the Federal Ministry of Finance, Accountant General of the Federation and Auditor–General for the Federation to jointly issue a Government Circular specifying strong sanctions against Agencies that violated FR 3010;
(ii) that many Agencies often violate the Appropriation Act by deliberately subjecting their internally generated revenue to some Committees directly overseeing them for approval and expend same illegally without Mr. President’s assent.
Consideration of report stepped down by leave of the House
HOUSE IN PLENARY
The House reverted to plenary and adopted the report of the committee of the whole following a motion by Rep. Mohammed Monguno and seconded by Rep. Shetima Alli
Rep. Mohammed Monguno moved a motion for the House to suspend its relevant rules to enable it adopt the votes and proceedings of the day so that the relevant communication can be made to the CBN Governor and it was seconded by Rep. Robert Tyough
Rep. Mohammed Monguno then moved a motion for the House to adopt the Votes and Proceedings of the day so that the relevant communication can be made to the CBN Governor and it was seconded by Rep. Robert Tyough
Adjournment:
The House at 15:28 adjourned plenary to Tuesday, December 13th, 2022 by 11:00 following a motion for adjournment moved by the Chief Whip of the House, Rep. Mohammed Monguno and seconded by Rep. Robert Tyough
Courtesy:
Media Unit, Office of the Speaker, House of Representatives.
By Kassim Omomia
The House of Representatives Committee on Steel has assured that it will effectively oversight all subsidiaries, agencies, especially research and development centres conneted to Ajaoukuta steel company and Steel development in the country, in order fulfil the long dream of making Nigeria a global steel producer
Chairman of the House Steel Sub- Committee on National Metallurgical Development Centre, NMDC , Hon Abdulmaleek Danga, stated in Jos during an oversight and investigation of petitions of contracts allegedlly awarded, paid- for, but not completed
He stated that the current Committee on Steel in the National Assembly was committed to ensuring proper oversight of steel devevelopment related agencies and research institutions so as to make Ajaokuta work this time around
Hon Danga told staff and top management cadre led by the Director General of the National Metallurgiical Develoomemt Centre, Professor Linus Asuquo, that the Committee was at the Centre in Jos, to carry out a thorough oversight and investigation , following a petition
He reminded the management , staff and Unions of the NMCD of the importance of the establishment of the Centre as a critical support base to sustain Ajaokuta Steel company
“We are here. We will do a thorough job here to sustain Ajaojuta and make it work. This place, (NMDC) must work first before we go to Ajaokuta”
Adressing the petition, Hon Danga pointed that with the avalanche of petitions against the NMDC, the place cannot work
He noted that petitions without facts and figures are retrogresive and create backwardness and stunt growth of any organisation
He noted that even though petitions have become the order of the day in our public life, they are undesirable, create backwardness ,stunt growth and as well create impressions that government agencies are wasting resources, especially when the petitions are without facts and figures
He added that the House was set to ensure the sustenance of NMCD and other ancillary steel agencies. so that Ajaokuta which is so dear to the current government can come on full stream
The subcomittee oversighting NMCD,Jos, which also included Honourable Ayuba Danba, Hon Domimic Okafor,embarked on a facility tour of the massive centre after a thorough session with management, top Staff, contractors, visiting the various departments, laboratories and workshops and projects executed by contractors especially those disputed in the petitions currently investigated by the sub-committee.
The Committee also addressed some aggrieved union leaders, who laid siege on the committee members in one of the sections of the Centre to express their grievances and alleged mismanagement of the Institute by the Prof Asuquo management
Hon Danga, however, appealed to both sides to work harmoniuosly , so that the current efforts of reviving Ajaokuta are achieved by the House of Representatives Committee on Steel and the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
According to the lawmaker, there is a noticeable lack of communication between the management and some critical stakeholders in the institute, which can result to misunderstanding, misconception about the Centre ,and thus, the avalanche of petitions
“Please work together, so that the current administration can revive Ajaokuta and make Nigeria a steel producing country, which is a dream long sought” he, advised
About 1000 Civil Society Organizations, CSOs, under the auspices of Coalition Of Civil Society Organisations, CCSOs, on Saturday Faults President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Economic Team and called for immediate reconstitution.
Expressing deep concern and worry over the state of the economy and escalating fuel prices compounding the hardship of Nigerians despite the recent protest, the groups said Tinubu must act now to avert disintegration.
The groups said the current situation across the country has cast doubt on the competence of the Tinubu economic team and called for urgent review.
The CCSOs in a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Mallam Ibrahim Mohammed, pointed out that the plight of Nigerians is sinking low and their patience is wearing off following the deteriorating economy.
The statement reads in part, “The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) is deeply concerned about the deteriorating state of the Nigerian economy, which is becoming increasingly unbearable for millions of citizens.
“It is evident that the recent hike in fuel prices and the unstable exchange rate are the direct results of economic mismanagement by those responsible for overseeing our nation’s financial policies. The ripple effects of these failures are being felt in every household across the country, worsening poverty and crippling economic activity.
“The floating of the Naira, which was initially sold to Nigerians as a means of stabilizing our currency, has done little to prevent the continued devaluation of the Naira. In fact, the exchange rate disparity has widened significantly, with the Naira losing value daily, impacting the cost of living, basic commodities, and inflation.
“While this policy was expected to ease foreign exchange pressure, it has instead deepened economic challenges due to poor implementation and lack of strategic foresight.”
The coalition also expressed concern over what it described as death trap of indebtedness of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, which also they claimed had slowed down importation of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, hence the current shortage of PMS across the country.
“Of equal concern is the precarious position of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), which finds itself in a debt trap, with global suppliers of petroleum products losing confidence in Nigeria’s ability to honour its obligations.
“Reports have shown that NNPCL has accrued debts totalling over $6 billion, causing petrol supply shortages. International suppliers are now reluctant to continue providing fuel on credit, exacerbating supply chain issues and pushing up the price of petrol at the pump”, they claimed.
The CSOs also asserted that, “We hold the managers of the Nigerian economy responsible for these disturbing developments. Their inability to provide sound policies and long-term solutions has left the nation in this predicament.
“It is clear that there is no cohesive strategy to address the rising debt, the growing imbalance in the foreign exchange market, or the country’s heavy reliance on importation for petrol supply. The recent hike in fuel prices reflects the collapse of responsible economic management and accountability.
“Nigerians are left to bear the brunt of these failures. Businesses are shutting down, transportation costs have skyrocketed, and citizens are spending an increasingly larger percentage of their income on basic necessities. This state of affairs is unacceptable.”
The group therefore placed some demands; Immediate intervention from the government: There needs to be a comprehensive and transparent plan to stabilize the Naira, restore confidence in the petroleum supply chain, and negotiate a restructuring of NNPC’s debts to ensure continuous fuel supply.
“Accountability for economic mismanagement: Those responsible for the reckless management of our foreign exchange policies and NNPC’s debts must be held accountable. The government must also disclose its plan to mitigate the rising fuel costs and economic burden on Nigerians.
“A return to sound financial policy: The floating of the Naira has proven ineffective under current conditions. We call for a re-evaluation of monetary and fiscal policies to stabilize the economy, reduce inflation, and attract foreign investment.
“In conclusion, the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations reiterates that without immediate corrective measures, the economic situation will continue to deteriorate, leading to further hardship for the average Nigerian. The government must act decisively and responsibly to reverse this downward spiral”, they added.
…..Says They ‘re Bunch of Hypocrites,
By Sim Omo
A group known as Patriots of Nigerian Democracy has lambasted the 2023 Governorship Candidate of the Labour Party in Lagos State, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour and other leaders of the party for saying they will take over Lagos State in 2027.
It will be recalled that Rhodes-Vivour while speaking to journalists in Umuahia, Abia State capital at the end of LP’s extended stakeholders’ meeting on Wednesday said that they will take over Lagos.
“LP is now well structured, not just to win but to take power in 2027. What we have come to do here in Umuahia is to bring everybody on the same page. We are set for new victories in 2027.
“I believe Labour Party will win Lagos State more convincingly in 2027. Since after the 2023 elections, work has not stopped; we have not gone quiet. Every day, we are getting stronger and stronger.
“So, we are not just going to win but stand up and take power”, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour had said in Umuahia.
Reacting to the statement, the group said that LP leaders are a bunch of hypocrites who pretend to be on the side of the people but neck deep in their selfish interests.
The statement jointly signed by the President of the group, Comrade Olaolu Esan and the Secretary, Engr. Abdullahi Rabiu recalled that LP and its supporters recently attacked the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu for urging the Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti to rejoin the All Progressives Congress (APC), vowing that the ruling party will win the State in 2027 in a viral video.
“All hell was let loose recently when the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu in a video that went viral called on the Governor of his own Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti to rejoin APC.
“Kalu came under heavy criticism and attacks by LP and its supporters. They criticized him for speaking his mind. They made Nigerians to see him in bad light as if what he said was a taboo.
“But here we are. Just about one or two weeks afterwards, the same LP leaders assembled in Umuahia, the Abia State capital to issue a quit notice to APC in Lagos.
“So, where is their nobility? Where is their shame? They abandoned governance for politics of 2027. How does that make them the “Saints” of the Nigerian politics? Are they for the people or against the people?
“We had thought that the LP leaders gathered in Umuahia to discuss the biting economy and the solution. We had thought they gathered to tell Nigerians how they will entrench good governance in Abia State but didn’t know their meeting was about strategies to take over Lagos, an APC controlled State. We have waited for Abia Governor, Dr. Alex Otti to call Rhodes-Vivour to order or to at least tell him, it is not yet time for politics but more than 24 hours, none of the LP’s leaders has done that.
“We want to say that this is very unfortunate. It simply means that politicians irrespective of their political parties and leanings are all one and same. They always think about the next election and not about good governance. They are always after their personal agenda and selfish interests.
“If this will be tolerated, it simply means that the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Kalu is vindicated. Labour Party supporters owe the Deputy Speaker a collective apology for attacking what he said and saying what they attacked. This is hypocrisy.
“Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour’s comment indicates and gives a feeling that the media attacks on Kalu were actually sponsored even though it was highly unnecessary. LP leaders can’t be a bunch of hypocrites.
“Our concerns are good governance and the welfare of the Nigerian people. While we are not saying that politicians should not “battle” themselves over 2027, they must ensure that Nigerians get the dividends of democracy. Good governance should not be sacrificed on the altar of politics. Nigerians should not be shortchanged in anyway rather their lives should be improved by every means possible. That is our position”, the statement stated.
