A heated argument broke out in the House of Representatives on Wednesday after lawmakers disagreed over a motion seeking to invite President Bola Tinubu to appear before the Green Chamber over a recent circular issued by the Accountant-General of the Federation.
The controversy began when the member representing Okpe/Sapele/Uvwie Federal Constituency in Delta State, Benedict Etanabene, raised a point of privilege during plenary.
He drew the attention of the House to a circular dated June 29 and signed by the Accountant-General of the Federation, Shamseldeen Ogunjimi.
Etanabene said the directive had generated widespread public concern and required urgent legislative attention.
He argued that President Tinubu should be invited to explain the issues raised in the circular and respond to lawmakers’ concerns.
Proposal Triggers Division among Lawmakers
The proposal immediately divided the House, with members taking opposing positions.
Supporters of the motion argued that the National Assembly has the constitutional responsibility to oversee matters relating to public finance and governance, making it necessary to engage the President on the issue.
However, other lawmakers opposed the proposal, insisting that inviting the President was unnecessary and inconsistent with established constitutional procedures.
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The disagreement soon escalated into a shouting match as lawmakers interrupted one another and exchanged heated remarks across the chamber.
The presiding officer repeatedly called for order before eventually restoring calm and allowing the plenary to continue.
The debate exposed differing views among lawmakers on the scope of the National Assembly’s oversight powers and the proper procedure for engaging the President on matters of national importance.
Although proceedings later resumed, tension remained in the chamber as deliberations continued on the contentious motion.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.