Reps Postpone Security Sector Debate to Ensure Chiefs’ Presence
The House of Representatives has rescheduled the Sectoral Debate on the Security Sector from Thursday to Tuesday, November 21, 2023, Excel Magazine International has gathered.
The Sectoral Debates aim to engage key officials of the Executive Arm of Government in discussions on critical sectors of the national economy.
Originally set to commence with the Security Sector on Thursday, the debate was deferred after an unanimous vote by Members of the House during Thursday’s plenary session, presided over by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen. House Leader Rep. Prof. Julius Ihonvbere and Rep. Aliyu Sani Madaki moved a motion to admit Security Chiefs, including Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Christopher Musa and others, into the Chamber. However, the Chiefs were represented, prompting Deputy Speaker Rt. Honourable Benjamin Kalu to raise a Constitutional Point of Order, emphasizing the need for their personal presence.
Citing Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution, the Deputy Speaker stressed the importance of Chiefs attending in person. A subsequent motion by Deputy Speaker Kalu to suspend the debates gained unanimous support. Speaker Tajudeen conveyed the House’s position, expressing appreciation for the Chiefs’ representation but insisting on their personal attendance on Tuesday at 11 am.
At a press briefing, Rep. Akin Rotimi, Spokesman and Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, underscored the House’s commitment to accountability in the security sector. He emphasized the gravity of security challenges facing Nigerians and the House’s determination to ensure Chiefs attend debates in person, aligning with the legislative agenda’s focus on improving accountability in the security sector.
