UPDATED: Reps Clash Over Motion Seeking To Summon Tinubu

A motion proposing that President Bola Tinubu be invited to appear before the House of Representatives sparked heated exchanges on Wednesday, disrupting plenary proceedings.

The controversy began when Benedict Etanabene, the lawmaker representing Okpe/Sapele/Uvwie Federal Constituency of Delta State, raised a point of privilege over a June 29 circular issued by the Accountant-General of the Federation, Shamseldeen Ogunjimi.

The circular directed all federal ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) to halt the processing of payments for constituency and Zonal Intervention Projects (ZIPs) unless the projects have first been cleared by the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs.

Etanabene argued that the directive could undermine the implementation of the 2025 Appropriation Act and called on the House to summon President Tinubu to explain the delays in the budget’s execution.

However, Yusuf Gagdi (APC – Plateau State) opposed the motion, arguing that there was no basis for summoning the President since the implementation and funding of constituency projects fall within the responsibilities of the relevant ministries, departments and agencies.

He also rejected the proposal to suspend legislative activities for one week, describing it as unnecessary.

Gagdi’s position drew opposition from some lawmakers, resulting in shouting matches and disorder in the chamber.

The Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, however intervened and directed that the House vote on the matter to determine its position.

The Speaker, however, ruled the proposal to invite the President out of order, stating that it did not form part of the original motion moved by Mascot.