Senate President Godswill Akpabio has issued a stern warning to non-performing committee chairpersons in the Senate, signaling a potential shake-up in the leadership of standing committees if oversight responsibilities are neglected.
This marks a significant step towards strengthening legislative accountability and efficiency within Nigeria’s upper chamber.
Akpabio made the remarks during Tuesday’s plenary, following a pointed complaint by Senator Abdul Ningi, representing Bauchi Central, about the failure of the Senate Committee on Finance to oversee revenue-generating agencies effectively.
Addressing the chamber, Akpabio emphasized the Senate’s commitment to delivering on its oversight mandate.
He warned that any committee struggling to execute its responsibilities would see its leadership changed.
“If for any reason some committees are finding it too difficult to oversee their agencies, we will change the composition of the committees so that those who have the capacity and the capabilities can take over and do the job for the benefit of democracy in this country,” Akpabio stated.
To underscore his commitment, Akpabio directed all standing committee chairpersons to submit detailed reports on their oversight activities by January 31, 2025.
In his address, Akpabio expressed frustration with the recurring issue of non-compliance by ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to Senate invitations and demands.
“The powers are there, and the constitution backs us,” Akpabio said.
“I do not see where any MDAs or any agency will refuse to comply with the invitation or demands from any committee of the Senate or the National Assembly as a whole.”
He called on committee chairpersons to uphold their oversight responsibilities, warning that laxity could embolden MDAs to continue ignoring legislative summons.
Senator Aliyu Wadada, representing Nasarawa West, highlighted the challenges faced by the Committee on Public Accounts in its dealings with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
According to Wadada, the FIRS submitted documents that were altered with correction fluid and handwritten notes, purportedly from JP Morgan.
“This is extremely unacceptable, and all efforts for the need to be done have not been achieved,” Wadada lamented.
Akpabio’s warning reflects a broader push for improved governance and transparency in the Senate.
By holding committee chairpersons accountable and addressing non-compliance by MDAs, the Senate aims to enhance its oversight role, a cornerstone of Nigeria’s democracy.
As the January 31 deadline for committee reports looms, all eyes will be on the Senate’s ability to follow through on these reforms, potentially setting a new standard for legislative performance in the country.