The House of Representatives was thrown into a heated session on Wednesday after lawmakers disagreed over a motion seeking to invite President Bola Tinubu to explain the delay in releasing funds for constituency projects across the country.
The motion was presented by Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, who represents Aba North and South Federal Constituency of Abia State under the Labour Party. He called on the President to appear before the House to address concerns over the continued non-funding of constituency projects.
The proposal received support from another lawmaker, while a separate amendment suggested that the House suspend plenary for one week until the funding issue was resolved.
The recommendations immediately divided members of the chamber. Yusuf Gagdi, who represents Pankshin, Kanke and Kanam Federal Constituency of Plateau State on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, opposed both proposals.
He argued that constituency projects are implemented by relevant ministries, departments and agencies rather than the President, making the proposed invitation unnecessary.
Gagdi also rejected the suggestion to suspend legislative activities, describing it as unnecessary under the circumstances.
His position sparked sharp reactions from several lawmakers, leading to loud exchanges and disorder on the floor of the House as members argued over the issue.
As the situation became more tense, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas stepped in to restore order and directed that members vote to determine the House’s position on the matter.
However, the Speaker ruled that the proposal to summon President Tinubu was out of order, explaining that it was not part of the original motion presented before the House.
The ruling ended the debate on the proposed invitation, although discussions over the funding of constituency projects continued.