The screening of the acting army chief, a probe of outdated electricity meters and another investigation into CNG tank explosion are key highlights from today’s plenary session of the House of Representatives
Reps screen acting COAS, Oluyode
The House of Representatives on Wednesday screened the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Olufemi Oluyede. He told the joint committee on defence and army of his extensive experience, having served in the Nigerian Army for over 30 years. He said: “My exposure to national security issues in junior, middle, and senior career levels has prepared me adequately for this assignment,
“I cannot completely distance myself from the successes and setbacks of our great army. In the past couple of years. However, I see my nomination as the Chief of Army Staff as a privileged opportunity to be in the driver’s seat and bring about more positive changes to the Nigerian Army to enable it to fulfil its constitutional responsibilities.”
Reps to probe DisCos over outdated electricity meters
The House of Representatives has directed its committee on power to investigate Distribution Companies (DisCos) over their failure to replace obsolete electricity meters and upgrade power infrastructure.
The lawmakers further called on the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to enforce strict compliance with established regulations governing the electricity sector.
This decision followed the adoption of a motion presented by Rep. Nnamdi Ezechi (PDP Delta), who highlighted the pressing need to address the underlying and immediate challenges affecting the country’s electricity distribution sector. He expressed concern over decommissioning of over 1,000 meters thereby expanding the hardship of Nigerians. He stated that the burden of acquiring and maintaining electricity infrastructure these days falls on Nigerians.
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Reps back CNG initiative despite explosion
The House of Representatives has called for immediate legislative action to regulate the production, installation, and use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) tanks in vehicles following a tragic explosion in Edo State that claimed several lives.
The House also directed the committees on gas resources and industry to identify the causes of the Edo tragedy and other parts of the country and recommend preventive measures.
The motion, sponsored by Rep. Fuad Kayode Laguda (APC Lagos), highlighted the urgent need to enforce safety standards and oversight as part of the government’s presidential CNG initiative which aims to provide Nigerians with a cleaner and more affordable alternative to petrol and diesel, reducing the financial burden caused by the removal of fuel subsidies while boosting environmental sustainability.
BILLs CHART FOR THE DAY
Below is OrderPaper’s signature presentation of bills taken in the House plenary today. Readers are invited to contact us for further information via info@orderpaper.ng or WhatsApp via +234 704 700 3031
