The House of Representatives has called for a comprehensive investigation into the losses, casualties and properties abandoned by Nigerians following recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
The lawmakers also urged the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic engagements, pursue legal measures and strengthen bilateral cooperation with South Africa to ensure the safety and protection of Nigerians living in the country.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by the member representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency of Lagos State, Babajimi Benson, during Tuesday’s plenary session presided over by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen.
The motion seeks to mandate the House Committees on Diaspora and Foreign Affairs to document the human and economic losses suffered by Nigerians during the attacks, compile an inventory of abandoned properties and recommend diplomatic and legal measures to improve the protection of Nigerians residing in South Africa.
Lawmakers argued that a thorough assessment of the impact of the attacks is necessary to support affected Nigerians and strengthen the country’s response to future incidents.
House Seeks Audit Of Recovered Assets
Also at plenary, the House considered a motion calling for a comprehensive audit of all seized, forfeited and recovered assets since May 29, 1999.
The motion, sponsored by Ibe Osonwa, who represents Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency of Abia State, advocates the creation of a national digital registry of recovered assets and the establishment of an ad hoc committee to enhance transparency, accountability and legislative oversight in asset management.
State Police Report Received
The House also received the report of the Constitution Review Committee on the proposed establishment of state police.
Other reports presented before lawmakers included those relating to the Nigeria Police Trust Fund budgets, while several bills progressed through various stages of legislative consideration.
PFIPC Probe
Meanwhile, shortly after plenary, the House Ad Hoc Committee investigating the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC) expressed displeasure over the failure of some 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 an official of the ministry, insisting that invited officials must appear in person or face further legislative action.
Chairman of the committee, Yusuf Gagdi, warned that the panel would not tolerate non-compliance with its directives.
The committee further summoned the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the National Security Adviser to explain how the council allegedly operated despite concerns raised over its legitimacy.
