The House of Representatives was thrown into a rowdy session on Tuesday following a motion alleging illegal and criminal allocation of Federal Government lands at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex.
The motion, sponsored by Hon. Ademorin Kuye, called for the constitution of an ad hoc committee to investigate the matter. However, several lawmakers opposed the motion, arguing that it fell within the jurisdiction of the House Committee on Commerce, which should handle the investigation instead.
After a vote, the Deputy Speaker, who presided over the session, ruled against the motion — a decision that further heightened tensions on the floor. Some lawmakers expressed anger over the ruling and reportedly opposed subsequent motions raised during the sitting.
It was later gathered that the unrest was also linked to grievances over the alleged non-payment of indigenous contractors. Several members reportedly insisted that no legislative business would continue until the contractors were paid, repeatedly interrupting and shouting down any attempt to proceed with other matters.
Efforts by the Deputy Speaker to restore order proved unsuccessful, prompting him to call for an executive session.
The House eventually adjourned plenary until next week Tuesday to allow for payment of the contractors and progress on the 2024 budget deliberations.
