No Rift Between Speaker and Deputy Over Oil Committee Dissolution — House of Reps

The House of Representatives has clarified that there is no conflict between Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu following the dissolution of the ad-hoc committee investigating oil theft and the importation of adulterated fuel.

In a statement on Wednesday, spokesperson Rotimi Akin addressed media speculation about tensions following the committee’s dissolution, emphasizing that the leadership’s decision was intended to ensure the efficacy, independence, and effectiveness of the investigations.

Akin stated, “There have been baseless speculations about a rift between the Speaker and Deputy Speaker, and allegations of inducement for appointing a committee chairman. The House’s leadership acted within its rights under Section 60 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which allows the House to regulate its procedures.”

He added that the House has the authority to dissolve an ad-hoc committee when necessary. “The dissolution of the ad-hoc committee on Oil and Gas Investigation did not violate any rule or law. No one received an inducement to appoint a committee chairman. The Selection Committee of the House, comprising members from each state, executed the assignment diligently between June and July 2023.”

Akin further emphasized, “There is no rift between the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker. They share a robust and cordial relationship, with mutual respect. The public should disregard the unfounded speculations in some media sections.”

He urged journalists and the Nigerian media to verify their facts before publishing, advising them to crosscheck with appropriate sources to avoid spreading falsehoods.

“The House operates an open-door policy and remains accessible to the Nigerian public and the media regarding its activities,” Akin concluded.