From Our Correspondent
President Bola Tinubu has appealed to members of the National Assembly to exercise restraint in summoning heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies before parliamentary committees.
Tinubu made the appeal during the breaking of the Ramadan fast with the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, and the leadership of the House in Abuja.
The President said while oversight is essential for maintaining transparency and accountability in governance, excessive summoning of officials could disrupt operations and hinder service delivery to citizens.
He, therefore, urged lawmakers to show discretion in exercising their oversight functions.
“I have been watching various committees summoning ministers and heads of agencies.
“I have complained to the Speaker to let the poor breathe. Let these people do the job.
“We are not saying that you are not influential; we are not saying you cannot do your oversight.
“But consider the primary duty of each agency, its personnel, or the responsibilities of the Governor of the Central Bank.
“Or the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance and the entire nation.
“If they are distracted or disturbed, maybe we will shift parliamentary sitting all through the night.
“We must find a way to accommodate one another. This is an appeal to you.
“See if you can accept representatives in some instances or even documentation,” the President said.
Tinubu expressed confidence in the ability of the National Assembly to uphold good governance. He also lauded the existing cordial relationship between the executive and the legislature.
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“The harmonious working relationship had resulted in the expeditious passage of several bills to improve the welfare of Nigerians.”
The President urged the legislators to take advantage of the holy month of Ramadan to show compassion and support the less privileged in society.
“We are making sacrifices for the country and we assure citizens that there is a bright light at the end of the tunnel.
“We must have faith, and please do not forget your constituencies and remember what they are going through,” Tinubu said.
On the recent killing of soldiers in Delta State, the President expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the bereaved.
He pledged that the sacrifices of the fallen heroes would never be in vain.
The President announced that the government would give the officers, a befitting burial and national honours.
In his remarks, the Speaker emphasized the importance of forgiveness, generosity and prayers during Ramadan.
He called for unity in the nation and support for President Tinubu.
Reflecting on the 10 months of this administration, Abbas said the executive and the legislature have continued to work in synergy for the country.
“So far, so good, the House has been supporting the President and his policies. We shall continue to ensure we work together,” the Speaker said.
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