Speaker Tajudeen Abbas announced Tuesday that the National Assembly will form a committee to help restore democratic order in Rivers State as the House of Representatives reassembled after its Easter and Sallah recesses.
In addition, Abbas presented a comprehensive legislative agenda, calling on lawmakers to recommit to national service and revolutionary reforms that would restore democracy, unity, and economic stability.
Abbas emphasized the crucial time ahead for the 10th Assembly in his welcome speech to members, setting the tone with a need for targeted action on important national issues.
To enable dialogue, advance peace, and aid in the restoration of democratic order in Rivers State and other conflict-affected areas, we will collaborate with the Senate in the upcoming weeks to establish a high-level Committee on Reconciliation, which will be composed of esteemed national individuals.
“Now is the time to strengthen democracy, reaffirm our relationship with the people, and pass purpose-driven legislation,” he said.
A thorough legislative program addressing electoral reform, constitutional review, economic resilience, and climate action was at the center of the speaker’s speech.
Abbas emphasized how urgent it is to pass important legislation, especially those pertaining to security, healthcare, education, and unemployment.
He highlighted recent achievements, such as the enactment of tax reform legislation intended to increase compliance and encourage investment.
He claimed that these show the House’s commitment to promoting responsible economic governance.
He cited Nigeria’s recent discussions with the IMF as another proof that strategic legislative oversight and budgetary restraint must coexist, saying, “We are shaping a future where policy reforms support national development and inclusivity.”
Restoring stability in the nation’s difficult regions, particularly Rivers State, was a major theme of his speeches.
Abbas revealed that in order to oversee the caretaker government and avoid a political void, a 21-member Ad-Hoc Committee headed by the House Leader is actively involving stakeholders.
In an attempt to modernize parliamentary interaction, Speaker Abbas launched the New Media Exchange program.
He claimed that in order to engage with younger Nigerians and transform legislative transparency, the House is embracing digital media.
“We need to meet people where they are—digital influencers and online leaders have become important opinion shapers,” he said.
Abbas acknowledged deadly attacks during the recess, which struck a melancholy note despite his optimism about reforms. He claimed that the tragedies, which include the horrific blast in Gamboru and the communal unrest in Benue and Plateau, highlight the necessity of strong security legislation.
Promotion
He expressed sympathy to the bereaved families and stated, “The House stands united in condemning these attacks and calls on security agencies to intensify efforts to restore peace.”
The speaker called for a proactive response, citing the forecast of severe flooding in more than 30 states.
He instructed pertinent committees to work with the executive on frameworks for disaster preparedness and climate resilience.
In addition, Abbas gave an overview of a number of public events that will commemorate the second anniversary of the 10th Assembly. The events, which range from a House Open Week in July to a Public Policy Dialogue in Abuja, aim to close the divide between the public and legislators.
He emphasized, “These are platforms to reaffirm our legislative vision and accountability to the people, not just celebrations.”
As the House moves into a crucial stage of its four-year tenure, Abbas urged his colleagues to remain united and diligent in his closing remarks.
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The upcoming weeks will be crucial. “Let us pledge to uphold the principles that make us the People’s House,” he said.
An 18-member committee was established by the Senate on Tuesday to supervise the actions of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), the only administrator of Rivers State.
This was revealed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Tuesday when plenary resumed.
Akpabio claims that the committee was established in an effort to improve accountability and openness in the state’s governance.
Akpabio appointed Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate Leader, as the committee’s chairman.
In order to ensure efficient legislative supervision in Rivers State, he emphasized the significance of the committee’s mandate.
Additionally, Akpabio warned that after additional talks, the committee’s makeup might be modified.
In addition to the Senate Clerk, the committee’s other members are Senators Adamu Aliero, Osita Izunaso, Osita Ngwu, Kaka Shehu, Aminu Abass, Tokunbo Abiru, Adeniyi Adebire, Sani Musa, Simon Lalong, Asuquo Ekpeyong, Adams Oshiomhole, Ireti Kingibe, Onyekachi, Idiat Adebule, Ide Dafinone, and Mohammed.
The Senate President emphasized the gravity of their mission and instructed the committee to begin its oversight responsibilities immediately.
Additionally, he reiterated the Senate’s dedication to maintaining democratic procedures in Rivers State.
