By Opeyemi Adelakun
A heated disagreement erupted in the House of Representatives on Wednesday after a motion seeking to invite President Bola Tinubu to explain the continued delay in funding constituency projects triggered a rowdy session among lawmakers.
The controversy began when Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, representing Aba North/Aba South Federal Constituency of Abia State, moved a motion urging the President to appear before the House to address concerns over the alleged non-release of funds for constituency projects across the country.
Tensions escalated further after a lawmaker proposed an amendment calling for the suspension of plenary for one week pending resolution of the issue.
The proposal sharply divided members, with supporters insisting that the funding delays were affecting project delivery in their constituencies, while opponents argued that responsibility for implementation rests with government ministries, departments and agencies rather than the Presidency.
Leading opposition to the motion, Yusuf Gagdi, representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency of Plateau State, maintained that there was no constitutional basis for summoning the President over matters handled by executive agencies.
Gagdi also rejected calls to suspend legislative proceedings, describing the suggestion as unnecessary and counterproductive.
His position sparked resistance from several lawmakers, leading to loud exchanges and disorder on the floor as members shouted across the chamber in support of opposing viewpoints.
As the debate grew increasingly tense, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas stepped in to restore order and directed that the matter be subjected to a vote to determine the position of the House.
The outcome of the vote was still being awaited as of the time of filing this report.
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