The House also received the report of its Constitution Review Committee on the proposed establishment of state police, as well as reports on the
By Mmesoma Onwuka
The House of Representatives has called for a comprehensive investigation into the losses, casualties and abandoned properties resulting from recent xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa.
Lawmakers also urged the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic engagement with South Africa, pursue legal avenues where necessary, and strengthen bilateral cooperation to ensure the safety and protection of Nigerians living in the country.
The resolutions were adopted during the second plenary session of the House following a six-week legislative recess. The sitting was presided over by the Speaker, Abbas Tajudeen, as lawmakers resumed consideration of key national issues.
Leading the day’s proceedings was a motion sponsored by the member representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency of Lagos State, Babajimi Benson. The motion called for a thorough legislative investigation into the deaths, injuries, property losses and other damages suffered by Nigerians during the attacks.
The House mandated its Committees on Diaspora and Foreign Affairs to document the human and economic impact of the incidents, compile an inventory of abandoned properties, and recommend diplomatic and legal measures to better protect Nigerians residing in South Africa.
Also considered was a motion sponsored by the member representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency of Abia State, Ibe Okwara Osonwa, seeking a comprehensive audit of all seized, forfeited and recovered assets from May 29, 1999, to date.
The proposal recommends the creation of a national digital registry for recovered assets and the establishment of an ad hoc committee to strengthen transparency, accountability and legislative oversight in the management of such assets.
During the plenary, the House also received the report of its Constitution Review Committee on the proposed establishment of state police, as well as reports on the Nigeria Police Trust Fund budgets. Several bills equally progressed through various stages of legislative consideration.
Meanwhile, shortly after plenary, the House Ad Hoc Committee investigating the alleged establishment of the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC) expressed dissatisfaction over the failure of several heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to honour its summons.
The committee also criticised the absence of the Minister of Finance, who was represented by another official, insisting that invited public officers must appear in person or risk further legislative action.
Lawmakers said the resolutions adopted during the session are intended to strengthen accountability in public institutions, protect the interests of Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora, and reinforce the oversight responsibilities of the National Assembly.