Paragraph 1: The Nigerian House of Representatives has issued a strong statement refuting media reports alleging internal dissent and an impending “showdown” over delayed payments for constituency projects. The House, through its spokesman Akin Rotimi, asserted its unwavering support for Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and emphasized the unity of the 360-member body despite its diverse composition. The statement clarified that while individual members are free to express their views, informal discussions, particularly within WhatsApp groups, should not be misconstrued as representing the official stance of the House or any of its caucuses.
Paragraph 2: The House underscored its commitment to established parliamentary procedures. These procedures dictate that formal concerns are raised through caucus leaders, committees, or individual members, leading to debates and resolutions within the chamber. The statement acknowledged the vibrancy of internal discourse as a hallmark of a healthy democracy but emphasized the distinction between such informal exchanges and official House positions. It credited Speaker Abbas with maintaining unity within the diverse House, fostering consensus-building, and ensuring every member’s voice is heard. The focus remains on resuming legislative activities in September with a renewed commitment to national priorities.
Paragraph 3: Addressing the issue of delayed contractor payments, the House acknowledged this as a nationwide challenge extending beyond constituency projects. The statement highlighted ongoing engagement between House leadership, through the Appropriations Committees, and the Minister of Finance. It noted that payments have begun and assured that efforts are underway to expedite the settlement of all outstanding 2024 obligations. The House recognized the pressure faced by members from constituents eager to see nominated projects implemented, emphasizing the importance of these projects in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to extend government presence throughout the country.
Paragraph 4: Regarding the sensitive matter of staff recruitment within the parliament, the House clarified that this is the exclusive purview of the National Assembly Service Commission, an independent statutory body. The House leadership emphasized its non-involvement in the recruitment process, which adheres to principles of federal character, inclusiveness, and merit to ensure fair representation across Nigeria’s states and geopolitical zones. However, demonstrating its oversight function, the Speaker has directed the House Committee on Public Service Matters to thoroughly investigate the recruitment exercise and submit a report to the House.
Paragraph 5: The House categorically rejected suggestions of unfair regional concentration in development, labeling them as false, divisive, and unproductive. It reaffirmed its commitment to equity, justice, and fairness in its operations. The statement emphasized that any internal disagreements are addressed through established parliamentary mechanisms rather than through speculation in media reports. While acknowledging the misleading nature of the original report that sparked the clarification, the House acknowledged that the report inadvertently highlighted the key concerns of its members, who continue to prioritize issues affecting their constituencies, including project implementation, equitable employment opportunities, and security.
Paragraph 6: The House leadership reiterated its unwavering commitment to transparency, inclusiveness, and fairness in fulfilling its constitutional mandate encompassing lawmaking, oversight, and representation. It urged all members to support this process in the collective best interest of the institution and the nation. This statement serves as a clear and comprehensive response to the initial report, aiming to quell speculation, reaffirm unity within the House, and emphasize its commitment to addressing critical national issues through established parliamentary procedures. The House leadership seeks to project an image of stability and focused action while acknowledging the legitimate concerns of its members and the broader Nigerian public.
