The House of Representatives on Wednesday descended into a heated and rowdy session as lawmakers clashed over an attempt to summon President Bola Tinubu to explain the poor implementation of the 2025 budget, the delayed release of appropriated funds, and worsening funding gaps affecting ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs).
The controversy began when Benedict Etanabene, who represents Okpe/Sapele/Uvwie Federal Constituency of Delta State, raised the issue under a matter of personal explanation, calling on the House to invite President Tinubu to account for the persistent failure to implement budgets despite trillions of naira approved by the National Assembly.
However, the Speaker, Abbas Tajudeen, ruled that the matter could not be debated because it was raised under a personal explanation.
Under the Standing Orders of the House of Representatives, a personal explanation allows members to clarify or explain issues affecting them personally or matters requiring immediate clarification. Such statements are ordinarily not subject to debate or decision by the House.
Mr Tajudeen informed lawmakers that Mr Etanabene’s point had been noted but could not be entertained on procedural grounds, a ruling that immediately sparked protests from some members and briefly disrupted proceedings.
