According to Punch on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has sent a strong warning to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) that reject invitations from the National Assembly, highlighting the constitutional authority of lawmakers to issue arrest warrants if necessary.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
During Tuesday’s plenary session, Akpabio expressed concern over the lack of cooperation from MDAs, following complaints from Senator Abdul Ningi of Bauchi Central.
Ningi highlighted the failure of the Senate Committee on Finance to conduct oversight on 92 revenue-generating agencies, underscoring the broader issue of non-compliance.
Akpabio stressed the importance of oversight in strengthening democracy and holding public institutions accountable. “The Constitution backs us. I do not see where any MDA or agency will refuse to comply with an invitation or demands from any Senate or National Assembly committee,” he said.
He warned that non-compliance should not be tolerated, urging committees to take their responsibilities seriously. “When committees overlook such defiance, it becomes a norm,” Akpabio added.
To address inefficiencies, Akpabio announced plans to reshuffle underperforming committees, ensuring they are led by capable individuals. He directed all standing committee chairmen to submit reports on their oversight activities by January 31, 2025, to assess progress and identify challenges.
The Senate President emphasized that MDAs are accountable to the National Assembly and must respect its constitutional mandate. “We have the authority to issue arrest warrants,” he declared, underscoring the seriousness of the legislative body’s powers.
With over 70 standing committees tasked with oversight functions, Akpabio’s warning serves as a call to action for MDAs to comply with legislative inquiries and for committees to uphold their oversight responsibilities effectively.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
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