The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has summoned lawmakers back from their annual recess for an emergency plenary session scheduled for Wednesday, July 31, 2024. The decision comes amid growing public discontent and planned nationwide protests against economic hardship and government policies......See Full Story>>.....See Full Story>>
The House of Representatives had commenced its annual recess on July 23, 2024, but the mounting pressure from citizens bemoaning current economic hardships has prompted the recall of the lawmakers.
According to a press release from the House, the forthcoming session will “focus on critical matters requiring immediate legislative attention.”
In addition to the plenary session, Abbas will host a town hall meeting with young Nigerians on the same day.
The event, organized in collaboration with YIAGA Africa and Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), aims to provide a platform for youth leaders, students, young professionals, and representatives from various youth organizations to engage directly with legislative leaders.
“Honourable Members have been duly summoned from their respective constituencies to attend this crucial session. This directive was communicated through an internal memorandum issued by the Clerk of the House, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, Esq., on Sunday,” said the House spokesman, Akin Rotimi Jr.
“The forthcoming session will focus on critical matters requiring immediate legislative attention. Honourable Members are expected to make the necessary arrangements to ensure their presence.
“Additionally, the reconvening will facilitate a significant engagement with young Nigerians through a town hall meeting hosted by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen…”
Rotimi added, “This town hall is a key component of the Legislative Agenda of the 10th House, which emphasises sustained youth engagement and the promotion of youth political participation. It is designed to provide a platform for young Nigerians to voice their concerns, share their ideas, and engage directly with legislative leaders on issues impacting their lives and futures.
“This initiative aims to bridge the gap between policymakers and the younger generation, ensuring that policies and laws are inclusive and address the specific needs of the youth. The 10th House of Representatives remains steadfast in its commitment to representing the interests of the Nigerian people and advancing the nation’s development.”
THE WHISTLER reports that the move comes against the backdrop of the planned nationwide protests scheduled for August 1-15, 2024.
The protesters are reportedly demanding action against hunger and hardship, with some calling for changes to the legislative system, including the abolition of the Senate and retaining the House of Representatives (HOR) as a part-time endeavour.
Meanwhile, the planned protests have gained attention, prompting the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada to issue security alerts to their citizens in Nigeria.
The countries warned of potential violence and advised their nationals to avoid areas where confrontations between security agencies and protesters might occur.
Despite the government’s attempts to discourage the planned protest, the organisers have remained steadfast.
Damilare Adenola, Director of Mobilisation for the Take It Back Movement, stated on Channels TV’s Sunday Politics yesterday: “Young people are tired and need to express their displeasure against government’s malfeasance.”