The Speaker of the House, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila presided.
After leading the opening prayer and the National Pledge, the Speaker approved the votes and proceedings for Tuesday, February 22nd, 2022________________________________________________________________________________________
ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. The membership of the Conference Committee on the harmonization of the Nigerian-French Village Bill with the Senate was announced, and it is to be chaired by Rep. Abubakar Hassan Fulata.
2. On Wednesday, 3rd March and Thursday, 4th March, the House will take the electronic votings on the amendment of the constitution. Members should make themselves available as votes will require a ratio of two-thirds of the members to scale through. All Committee work is to be suspended for the duration of the voting exercise, so there should be no excuses for absenteeism.________________________________________________________________________________________
PETITION
1. Rep. Yusuf Buba laid a petition on behalf of a complainant against the Federal Road Safety Commission on the alleged unlawful termination of employment. He craved the intervention of the House in resolving the matter.
The petition was referred to the House Committee on Public Petitions________________________________________________________________________________________
MATTERS OF URGENT PUBLIC IMPORTANCE
1. Rep. Lawrence Babatunde Ayeni moved a motion on the need to end the ongoing killing of innocent citizens by suspected cultists in Osun State and it was seconded by Rep. Babajimi Benson.
Rep. Ayeni stated that the killings have continued unabated. The violence he stated began with an attack on attendees of a political engagement of the All Progressive Congress and has continued unabated. He called on the Inspector General of Police and head of the Department of State Service to ensure security personnel are deployed to the area to cease unleashing violence on the people and return the communities to normalcy. Rep. Ayeni further called on the House Committee on Legislative Compliance to ensure compliance.
The motion was voted on and adopted.
2. Rep. Tukura Ibrahim moved a motion on the urgent need to deploy new strategies in combating kidnapping and cattle rustling in Kebbi state and it was seconded by Rep. Stanley Olajide.
Rep. Tukura stated that the bandits who move on motorbikes and in their hundreds kill and abduct citizens in droves. They also engage in uninterrupted cattle rustling and intimidation of citizens. He further stated that several residents have been displaced by the activities of the bandits. He called for a new approach by security agencies to bring the activities of the bandits to a halt. Rep. Tukura called on all security agencies, including the Armed Forces to deploy men and resources to the area to combat the growing menace in the area.
The motion was voted on and adopted.________________________________________________________________________________________
PRESENTATION OF BILLS 1. Citizen’s Bill of Rights (Establishment) Bill, 2022 (HB. 1861) (Rep. Henry Archibong) – First Reading. 2. Weapons Handling (Regulation) Bill, 2022 (HB. 1862) (Rep. Shoyinka Abiola Olatunji) – First Reading. 3. National Amnesty Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2022 (HB. 1863) (Rep. Oyewo Olubukola Oyegbile) – First Reading. 4. Federal University of Environmental Sciences, Ifon, Osun State (Establishment) Bill, 2022 (HB. 1864) (Rep. Oyewo Olubukola Oyegbile) – First Reading. 5. Secondary Education Trust Fund (Establishment) Bill, 2022 (HB. 1865) (Rep. Oyewo Olubukola Oyegbile) – First Reading. 6. Federal Institute of Bio-Medical and Laboratory Technology, Effurun Bill, 2022 (HB. 1866) (Rep. Anthony O. Afe) – First Reading. 7. Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri (Establishment) Bill, 2022 (HB. 1867) (Rep. Ikenna Elezieanya) – First Reading. 8. Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri (Establishment) Bill, 2022 (HB. 1868) (Rep. Henry Nwawuba) – First Reading. 9. Environmental Research Council of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2022 (HB. 1869) (Rep. Shehu Ahmed) – First Reading. 10. National Groundnut Production, Processing and Research Institute, Wurno, Sokoto State (Establishment) Bill, 2022 (HB. 1870) (Rep. Ibrahim Almustapha Aliyu) – First Reading. 11. Federal Medical Centre, Dadin-Kowa, Kano State (Establishment) Bill, 2022 (HB. 1872) (Rep. Alhassan Ado Doguwa) – First Reading. 12. National Center for Research and Production of Snake Vaccines (Establishment, etc.) Bill, 2022 (HB. 1836) (Rep. Karu Simon Elisha) –First Reading. ________________________________________________________________________________________PRESENTATION OF REPORTS The Deputy Speaker of the House, Rep. Ahmed Idris Wase thanked members and Nigerians for their cooperation and critical contributions during the constitution amendment exercises. He also commended the Speaker of the House, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila for being gender sensitive in all legislative considerations.
The Speaker, Rep. Gbajabiamila commended the Deputy Speaker, Rep. Ahmed Wase and the Ad-Hoc Committee on the Review of the Constitution for a job well done on the far-reaching legislative work.
1. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Abrogate the State Joint Local Government Account and Provide for a Special Account into which shall be paid all Allocations due to Local Government Councils from the Federation Account and from the Government of the State; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
2. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to establish Local Government as a Tier of Government and Guarantee their Democratic Existence, Tenure; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
3. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Change the Name Afikpo North and Afikpo South Local Government Areas; and for Related Matter s”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
4. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Change the name of Kunchi Local Government Area; and for Related Matter s”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
5. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Change the Names of Egbado North and Egbado South Local Government Areas; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
6. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Change the Name Barikin Ladi Local Government Area; and for Related Matters”. The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
7. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Correct name Atigbo Local government Area; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
8. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Correct the Name of Obia/Akpor Local Government Area; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
9. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Provide for the Financial Independence of State Houses of Assembly and State Judiciary; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
10. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to compel persons to obey or comply with Legislative Summons; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
11. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Regulate the First Session and Inauguration of Members-Elect of the National and State Houses of Assembly; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
12. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provision of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Institutionalize Legislative Bureaucracy in the Constitution; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
13. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Provide for the Procedure for passing a Constitution Alteration Bill where the President withhold Assent; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
14. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provision of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to provide the Procedure for Overriding Executive Veto in Respect of Money Bill; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
15. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Provide for the Procedure of Removing Presiding Officers of the Legislature; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
16. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Provide Pension for Presiding Officers of the National Assembly; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
17. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Establish the Federal Revenue Court and the Revenue Court of a State; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
18. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provision of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Further Strengthen the Judiciary for Timely Dispensation of Justice; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
19. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Provide the timelines within which Civil and Criminal Cases are heard and determined at Trial and Appellate Courts in Order to Eliminate unnecessary delay in Justice Administration and Delivery; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
20. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Ensure Uniformity in the Retirement Age and pension Rights of Judicial Officers of Superior Courts of Records; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
21. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Delete the Reference to the Provisions of the Criminal Code, Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Act, Criminal Procedure Code or Evidence Act; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
22. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Exclude the Period of Intervening Events in the Computation of Time for Determining Pre-election Petitions, Election Petitions and Appeals therefrom; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
23. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to allow Court or Tribunal Proceedings to be Conducted remotely, Virtually, Online or through any Media Platform or Technological Innovation; and for Related Matters”. The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
24. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Expand the Interpretation of Judicial Office to include Courts or Tribunals created by an Act of the National Assembly or a State House of Assembly; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
25. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to provide for the Post Call Qualification of the Secretary of the National Judicial Council; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
26. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Permit Public Servants to Engage in Healthcare Education, Production and Services beyond Farming; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
27. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Impose the requirement of fair Hearing in the process of Recommendation of Removal of Judicial Officers by the State Judicial Service Commission; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
28. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Include Judges of the National Industrial Court in the Composition of Election Tribunal; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
29. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Move Airports from Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent Legislative List; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
30. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to move Fingerprints, Identification and Criminal Records from the Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent Legislative List; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
1. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Delete prisons in the Exclusive Legislative List and Redesignate it as Correctional Services in the Concurrent Legislative List; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
32. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to move Railway from the Exclusive Legislative List to Concurrent Legislative List; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
33. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to allow States Generate, Transmit and Distribute Electricity in Area covered by the National Grid; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
34. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter Part I of the Second Schedule to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to include Value Added Tax on the Exclusive Legislative List; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
35. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Provide for Special Seat for Women in the National and State Houses of Assembly; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
36. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Expand the Scope of Citizenship by Registration; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
37. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Provide for Affirmative Action for Women in Political Party Administration; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
38. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to provide Criteria for Qualification to become an Indigene of a State in Nigeria; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
39. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Empower the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission to Enforce Compliance with Remittance of Accruals into and Disbursement of Revenue from the Federation Account and Streamline the Procedure for Reviewing the Revenue Allocation Formula; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
40. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Enhance the Independence of Certain Bodies; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
41. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Remove Transitional Lawmaking Powers from the Executive Arms of Government; and for Related Matters”
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
42. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Expand Immunity to the Legislative and Judicial arms of Government; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
43. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Specify the Time within which the Executive shall present to the National Assembly any Treaty between the Federation and any other Country for Enactment; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
44. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Specify the period within which the President or the Governor of State shall present the Appropriation Bill before the National Assembly or House of Assembly; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
45. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Require the President or Governors to submit the Names of Persons Nominated as Ministers or Commissioners within thirty days of taking the Oath of Office for Confirmation by the Senate or State House of Assembly, and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
46. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter Third Schedule to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to include Presiding Officers of the National Assembly in the Membership of the National Security Council; and for Related Matters”. The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
47. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Establish State Security Council; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
48. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Second Schedule to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Empower the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly Powers to summon the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Governors of States to answer Questions on issues on which the National and State Houses of Assembly have the Power to make Law; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
49. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to reduce the Period within which the President or the Governor of a State may authorize the withdrawal of Monies from the Consolidated Revenue Fund in the absence of an Appropriations Act from six months to three months; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
50. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Replace the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Federation with the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Federal Government; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
51. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Establish the Office of the Accountant –General of the Federal Government separate from the Office of the Accountant –General of the Federation; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
52. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Specify the Timeframe for the Conduct of Population Census; and for Related Matters”. The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
53. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Establish the Office of the Attorney–General of the Federation and of the State separate from the Office of the Minister of Justice or Commissioners for Justice of the state in order to make the Offices Attorneys–General Independent and Insulated from Partisanship; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
54. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to provide for a State of the Nation and State of the State Address by the President and Governor; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
55. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Include Former Heads of the National Assembly in the Council of State; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
56. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Provide for the Termination of Tenure of Certain Elected Officials on Account of a Change of Political Party; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
57. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Enhance existing Provisions on the Formation of Political Parties; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
58. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Provide for Independent Candidacy in Presidential, Governorship, National Assembly, State Houses of Assembly and Local Government Councils Elections; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
59. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Provide for Diaspora Voting; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
60. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to provide for the Office of the Mayor for the Federal Capital Territory Administration Abuja; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
61. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to provide for Appointment of a Minister from the FCT; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
62. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Correct the Error in the definition of the Boundary of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
63. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to make Free, Compulsory and Basic Education a Fundamental Right of all Citizens under Chapter IV of the Constitution; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
64. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to further define Acts that Constitute Torture, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
65. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Require the Government to Direct its Policy towards ensuring Rights to Food and Food Security in Nigeria; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
66. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Reflect the Establishment and Core Functions of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
67. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Establish the National and State Councils of Traditional Rulers to advise the President and Governors on Matters Related to Customs, Security and Public Order; and for Related Matters”.
The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.
68. Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution:Rep. Ahmed Idris:“That the House do receive the Report of the Special Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on a Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to, Provide Reserved Quota for Women; and for Related Matters”. The report was laid following a motion by Rep. Ahmed Idris and seconded by Rep. Lynda Ikpeazu.________________________________________________________________________________________
ORDERS OF THE DAY BILLS 1. A Bill for an Act to Amend the Nigerian Legion Act, Cap. N119, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 to Establish and include Certain Functions of the Corps of the Nigerian Commissionaires for Proper Care, Good Health and Welfare of the Nigerian Legion; and for Related Matters (HB. 1553) (Rep. Patrick Nathan Ifon) – Second Reading.
Debate Rep. Patrick Ifon moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Ahmed Jaha.
The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Defense.
2. A Bill for an Act to Establish Unclaimed Financial Assets Commission; and for Related Matters (HB.1477) (Rep. Ademorin A. Kuye) – Second Reading. Debate Rep. Ademorin Kuye moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Bello Kaoje.
The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Finance.
3. A Bill for an Act to Establish Federal Medial Centre, Zuru, Kebbi State saddled with the Responsibility of providing Secondary and Tertiary Medical Services for all kinds of Medical Challenges to all categories of Nigerians; and for Related Matters (HB.1091) (Rep. Kabir Ibrahim Tukura) – Second Reading.
Debate Rep. Kabir Tukura moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Lawan Shettima Ali.
The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Health Institutions.
4. A Bill for an Act to Amend the Orthopaedic Hospitals Management Board Act to Establish the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Okunmwun, Edo State; and for Related Matters (HB. 1612) (Rep. Dennis Idahosa) – Second Reading.
Debate Rep. Dennis Idahosa moved for the second reading of the Bill and it was seconded by Rep. Aishatu Dukku.
The Bill was voted on, approved for second reading and referred to the House Committee on Health Institutions.________________________________________________________________________________________
MOTIONS 5. Need to Investigate the Duplication of Functions of Agencies of the Federal Government:Rep. Tahir Mohammed Monguno:
The House:Notes that Section 153(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) empowers the National Assembly to repeal obsolete laws and enact new ones for the good governance on the Federation;
Aware that Nigeria has been gaining on the world index of Ease of Doing Business (EDB) rising from the 145th position in 2019 to 131st in 2020, hence there is a need to consolidate on this improvement;
Worried that with the existence of about 1,484 Agencies, Departments, Boards, Parastatals and Corporations in the country with the attendant duplication of functions and clash of interests, there is a likelihood of the latest World Bank annual ratings to slide considerably;
Believes in the need for stock-taking and review of the functions of all government Agencies:
Resolves to:Set up an Ad-hoc Committee to:(i) investigate duplication of duties, overlapping functions and counter-productivity of established Agencies, Departments, Boards, Parastatals and Corporations in the country; (ii) ascertain root cause analysis of the regular bickering among some established Agencies, Departments, Boards, Parastatals and Corporations in the country; (iii) establish areas of mergers, synergies and justification of the existence of some established Agencies, Departments, Boards, Parastatals and Corporations, which are no longer needed in the country and report back within six (6) weeks for further legislative action.
Debate Rep. Mohammed Monguno moved the motion on the need to investigate the duplication of functional agencies of the federal government and it was seconded by Rep. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha.
The Deputy Speaker of the House, Rep. Ahmed Wase reminded members that a similar motion on the same subject matter had been brought before the House earlier.
The motion was stepped down to ascertain the stage of legislative action the earlier motion had reached and to see if both motions need to be consolidated.________________________________________________________________________________________
ADMITTANCE INTO CHAMBER
The Leader of the House, Rep. Alhassan Ado-Doguwa rose to ask for the leave of the House to suspend its relevant rules to allow the First Lady of the Federation, Hajiya Aishatu Buhari to enter the hallowed chambers of the House, to observe proceedings and it was seconded by Rep. Nasir Ali Ahmed.
The Speaker of the House, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila welcomed the First Lady to the plenary. He stated that the First Lady came to show support to the women of Nigeria, especially in the area of gender-sensitive areas of the amendment of the constitution. Rep. Gbajabiamila assured Hajiya Buhari of the support of the House for all her well-meaning endeavours. He applauded her for using the influence of her office for the good of Nigerians.________________________________________________________________________________________
6. Urgent Need to Upgrade the Standards of the Federal Fire Service to Tackle Incessant Cases of Fire Outbreaks in Nigeria:Rep. Ganiyu Abiodun Johnson: The House: Notes that fire incidents constitute one of the calamities that often befall Nigerians, especially during the harmattan season, making it easy for a fire to spread at the slightest ignition or explosions caused by fuel-laden trucks; Also notes that lives, properties and businesses have been destroyed as a result of incessant fire outbreaks in the country; Aware that in Nigeria, the dry season is usually from November to March, which comes with an increased incidence of fire outbreaks due to the easy spread of fire during this period; Also aware that fire incidences occur occasionally during the rainy season as a result of explosions from fuel-laden trucks; Recalls that on 7 January 2021, an explosion along Apapa/Oshodi Expressway damaged the ramp to the airport and caused huge loss to the nation’s economy as it prevented people from accessing the airport; Also recall that on 22 March 2021, properties worth millions of Naira and over 60 shops were destroyed following a midnight fire outbreak at the Tudun Wada Market at Gusau in Zamfara State; Concerned that there have been numerous reports of fire incidences, which had destroyed businesses worth billions of Naira and the consequent job losses that ensued, not to mention the loss of lives; Cognizant of the mandate of the Federal Fire Service to save lives and property through firefighting, rescue operations and rendering of other humanitarian services; Resolves to: (i) Urge the Federal Government to commit more funds to the Federal Fire Service and provide Fire Service Stations in all the 774 Local Government Areas in the Federation to meet up with their current challenges in combating fire outbreaks; (ii) also urge the Federal Fire Service and other stakeholders in disaster management to intensify advocacy in the sector; (iii) call on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to conduct sensitization campaigns to Local Government Areas on the importance of setting up, funding and equipping their own emergency management agencies in order to localize disaster risk management practices in local communities; (iv) also mandate the Committees on Interior and Emergency and Disaster Preparedness to ensure compliance.
Debate Rep. Ganiyu Johnson moved the motion on the urgent need to upgrade the standards of the Federal Fire Service to tackle incessant cases of fire outbreaks in Nigeria and it was seconded by Rep. Musa.
The motion was voted on and adopted.
7. Urgent Need to Reopen the Railway Station at Ede in Osun State:Rep. Bamidele Salam: The House: Notes that the Railway Station at Ede is one of the first railway stations in Nigeria which was constructed alongside Agege Station, Ibadan Station, Iwo Station, Osogbo Station, Offa Station, Ilorin Station, among others; Also notes that Ede is a major trading centre for cotton, palm produce, yam, cassava, okra and kola nuts in the South Western part of Nigeria as the inhabitants are predominantly farmers and traders; Further notes that being a major exportation point for agricultural products, a Railway Station was constructed in the town in 1906, which has links to Lagos State and Nguru in the North; Aware that the Railway Station has facilitated trade, generated economic growth and ultimately created jobs for the teeming unemployed youth in Osun State; Concerned that despite the huge population and economic activities in Ede and its environs, the Ede Railway Station had been closed down for about one year, allegedly as a result of lack of sanitary facilities and inadequate electricity; Also concerned that the closure is negatively impacting the people of Ede and its environs, and causing revenue loss to the Nigerian Railway Corporation and Nigeria as a whole; Cognizant that the essence of reviving the Railway System is to restore and expand economic activities in Nigeria, thus the closure of a viable Railway Station as the one in Ede may be inimical to the Federal Government’s plans to expand the economy through the standard gauge railway project; Worried that if nothing is done to reopen the Ede Railway Station, facilities worth several millions of Naira, comprising of the ticket office, platforms for loading and unloading, among others would deteriorate, thus causing huge loss of revenue to the Federal Government; Resolves to: (i) urge the Nigerian Railway Corporation to urgently reopen the Ede Railway Station in Osun State and put in place necessary facilities for the smooth running of the Station; (ii) mandate the Committee on Land Transport to ensure compliance.
Debate Rep. Bamidele Salam moved the motion on the urgent need to reopen the railway station at Ede in Osun state and it was seconded by Rep. Ahmed Jaha.
The motion was voted on and adopted.
8. Need to Investigate the Incidences of Fake Insurance Certificates in Nigeria:Rep. Oluyemi Adewale Taiwo: The House: Notes that the Insurance Act, 2003 mandates all motorists to have a minimum of Third-Party Motor Insurance Policy in place and that Section 68 of Act stipulates that “No person shall use or cause or permit any other person to use a motor vehicle on a road unless a liability which he may thereby incur in respect of damage to the property of third- party is insured with an Insurer registered under this Act”; Aware that the statutory laws of the country stipulate that no motorist should ply Nigeria roads without having a genuine Insurance certificate, however, most motorists have continued to show absolute disregard for the statutory requirement; Worried that the number of vehicles with fake certificates on Nigeria road has risen to 9.4 million and the figure released by the Nigeria Insurers Association revealed that only 2.72 million vehicles on Nigerian roads have valid insurance covers as of February 2021; Also worried that millions of vehicles, trucks and motorcycles plying Nigeria roads are not insured; Resolves to: (i) Urge the Insurance Companies and Brokerage to have operational offices in major cities in the country; (ii) mandate the Committee on Insurance and Actuarial Matters to investigate the incidences of Fake Insurance Certificates in Nigeria and report back within six weeks for further legislative action.
Debate Rep. Oluyemi Taiwo moved the motion on the need to investigate the incidences of fake insurance certificates in Nigeria and it was seconded by Rep. Blessing Onuh.
The motion was voted on and adopted.
9. Need to Subsidize COVID -19 Test and Increase Molecular Diagnosis Centres In Nigeria:Rep. Oberuakpefe Afe. The House Recalls the outbreak of the deadly Coronavirus Disease (Covid-19) on 7 January 2020 in Wuham City, China while the first confirmed case in Nigeria was recorded in Lagos on 2 February 2020 which necessitated the lockdown declared by President Muhammadu Buhari on 30 March 2020 to contain the spread of the virus; Notes that the Statistical Analysis of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) shows that 254,000 cases were recorded and 3,141 deaths occurred between February 2020 and January 2022, though the figure may not be the true reflection of realities on the ground because a lot of Nigerians are dying every day in the rural areas without access to Covid-19 test to ascertain the status and cause of death; Worried about the long process being encountered in the course of getting Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test by Nigerians as a result of the availability of few testing centres; Informed that Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for COVID-19 is a molecular test that analyses the upper respiratory specimen, looking for genetic material (ribonucleic acid or RNA) hence, the need for travellers to get tested to curb the spread of the COVID-19 Virus, to this effect, the integrity and validity of the test cannot be overemphasized at this period of the COVID-19 Pandemic; Aware that in a country with thirty thousand (30,000,00) naira as the minimum wage, one has to pay between forty thousand (40,000) naira and fifty thousand (50,000.00) naira, depending on the centre for just a PCR test which ordinarily should have been made free test as the other vaccines that are made free for Nigerians; Disturbed that for a population of over 200 million people, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control approved Molecular Diagnostic Centres and Laboratories where a PCR test can be conducted in the whole country are not up to 160 in total i.e. 84 Public laboratories, mostly found in government hospitals, 63 private fee-paying and 9 Corporate laboratories, all concentrated in the City Centers, leaving the rural areas out of reach; Cognizant of the need for the Federal Government to urgently establish one Molecular Diagnostic Centre in each Local Government Area of the Federation for easy access to COVID-19- Test (PCR) to allow average Nigerians benefit, to avert increasing mortality rates in urban and rural areas, especially the low-income earners; Resolves to: (i) Urge the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and the Federal Ministry of Health to commence the process of establishing one Molecular Diagnostic Centre in the headquarters of each of the 774 Local Government Areas in the country; (ii) also urge the Federal Government to subsidize the COVID-19 PCR Test for average Nigerians benefit; (iii) mandate the Committee on Healthcare Services to ensure implementation.
Motion stepped down by leave of the House
10. Need to Develop Idere Hill at Ibarapa Central Local Government Area of Oyo State as an International Tourist Centre:Rep. Muraina S. Ajibola. The House: Notes that in 2019, the tourism industry contributed 10.4% of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which decreased to 5.5% in 2020 due to the restrictions placed on global travels following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic; Also notes that several African countries have developed thriving and sustainable tourism industries as may be seen in Morocco where the tourism industry contributed 18% of the country’s GDP in 2019; Further notes that in 2019, the tourism industry contributed $1.5 billion to Nigeria’s economy, which decreased due to the outbreak of covid-19 and the restrictions placed on international travels; Concerned that the Nigerian tourism industry remains relatively undeveloped despite the uniqueness, richness and diversity of Nigeria’s tourism resources; Believes that the tourism industry in Nigeria has the potential of contributing much more to the economy, provided that the Federal Government, the 36 States Governments and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) put in place measures to harness the potentials of the numerous natural tourist attractions that abound in the country; Aware that Idere Hills situated in Idere town in Ibarapa Central Local Government Area of Oyo State, which is about 2-hour’s drive from Ibadan, is gradually emerging as a new tourism centre as it has been attracting patronage from Local and International tourists; Also aware that Idere Hills is endowed with about 14 natural attractions, among which are a suspended lake, unexploited caves, beautiful topography, unusually shaped rocks, friendly weather and a fortress and is blessed with several historic artefacts and archaeological materials which are yet to be studied and documented by the National Library and the National Museum; Observes that the inhabitants of Idere town and the adjoining settlements often organize annual carnivals, which attract visitors from all over the world and the Government of Oyo State has been promoting and developing Idere Hills as an emerging and thriving International tourism centre; Cognizant that if Idere Hills, is officially recognized and developed as an international tourism centre, the benefits to the country would be enormous, including protection of the environment, preservation of natural resources and conservation of wildlife as well as preservation of the cultural heritage of the inhabitants, hence providing socio-economic benefits for the host communities, Oyo State and the country as a whole; Resolves to: (i) Urge the Federal Government to officially declare Idere Hills as an International Tourism Centre in Nigeria and develop it by providing good roads, lodging, hospitals and ancillary services for the comfort of tourists and the inhabitants who may require them; (ii) mandate the Committees on Culture and Tourism to ensure compliance and report back within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.
Debate Rep. Muraina Ajibola moved the motion on the need to develop Idere Hill at Ibarapa Central local government area of Oyo state as an international tourist centre and it was seconded by Rep. Ndudi Elumelu.
The motion was voted on and adopted.
11. Devastating Fire Disaster at Kaoje Market in Bagudo Local Government Area of Kebbi State:Rep. Bello A. Kaoje The House: Notes that Kaoje Market in Bagudo Local Government of Kebbi State is a market where many traders cohabit and this novel traders market has existed in Kaoje community for a very long time; Informed that on Wednesday 16th February 2022, a devastating fire outbreak occurred at the market destroying over 100 shops, several residential houses, Vehicles, tricycles and valuables worth millions of naira; Aware that as a result of the fire disaster, economic activities “at the Market has virtually been grounded” leaving the victims financially handicapped and emotionally and psychologically distressed thus rendering the traders idle and are now roaming the streets, a development that could lead to social vices; Recognize the efforts of the Government of Kebbi State and the Local Government Council which have shown concern at the plights of the traders and visit the market; Concerned that the remote and immediate causes of the fire outbreak are still unknown and sustainable solutions have not been proffered to prevent future occurrence; Resolves to: (i) commiserate with the Government of Kebbi State and visit victims of the fire disaster while
