Protracted leadership crisis in the House, a distraction – Dogara
The Speaker who expressed dismay over the development while inaugurating a 21-man committee to help in the nation’s law reform process in Abuja yesterday, explained that the House was committed to the speedy passage of all major bills before it so as to impact positively on the lives of Nigerians, which he said the leadership crisis has slowed down.
He said the setting up of the committee was to facilitate a review of the various laws in the statutes books of the country which, according to him had become anachronistic and outdated, adding that by the provision of Section 315 of the 1999 Constitution, all existing laws, including military decrees were deemed to be Acts of the National Assembly.
His words, “The 8th Assembly has had a few distractions, but it is time to get on to the job for which we were elected. Apart from reviewing existing laws, law reform involves introduction of new laws where necessary.
“Laws that aid the anti corruption struggle, infrastructure renewal, efficient and optimal utilization of our petroleum resources, solid minerals, education and social services, agriculture, diversification of our economy and employment of our teeming youth population should engage our un-divided attention as a parliament.
“The good news, however, is that the 8th House of Representatives is resolutely committed to expeditious passing all major bills before it or submitted to it that will impact positively on the lives and well-being of Nigerians. This is the irrevocable undertaking enshrined in our legislative agenda,” Dogara said.
Members of the committee include; Mohammed Tahir Monguno, Razak Atunwa, Ken Chikere, Madubueze Peter Obiano, Olabode Ayorinde, Simon Arabo, the National President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Austin Alegeh, NBA Secretary, Mr. Afam Osigwe, Prof C. O. Okonkwo, Olisa Agbakoba, Prof Auwalu Yadudu, Prof Oyelowo Oyewo, Prof Joash Amupitan, Dr. Ladi Hamalai and Prof Okechukwu Okoli.
Other members are; Kefas Magaji; Mrs. Oguneye; Mr. M. A. Sani Omolori, C. I. D. Maduabum, Dr. S. A. Danwanka and Prof Ade Adekunle.
The committee has as its terms of reference to advise the Speaker and the House of Representatives on the legislative action required for the review of all existing laws with a view to incorporating all amendments and adaptations made earlier.
The panel is also expected to advise the Speaker and the House of Representatives by collating all existing laws and evaluating their efficacy and effectiveness as well as to assess all existing laws and identify areas that require reform or further legislative actions.
