By Christiana Ekpa
The House of Representatives Committee on Renewable Energy has summoned the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), directing him to appear in person before the panel on Tuesday, March 2, after he failed to attend an ongoing investigative hearing in Abuja.
Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Afam Ogene, issued the order on Wednesday, describing the absence as unacceptable and warning that statutory oversight responsibilities must not be undermined. He further mandated the Agency to submit a detailed written response to all issues raised by the Committee within 48 hours.
“As lawmakers, we are constitutionally empowered under Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to hold public officers accountable,” Ogene stated firmly.
Committee members expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Managing Director’s absence, describing it as a slight on the authority of the National Assembly.
Rep. Kwamoti Laori (Demsa/Numan/Lamurde, Adamawa) labeled the development “highly disrespectful,” warning that such conduct should not be tolerated. He urged the Committee to consider issuing a warrant of arrest through the Inspector-General of Police should the directive be ignored.
In the same vein, Rep. Shina Oyedeji (Iseyin/Itesiwaju/Kajola/Iwajowa, Oyo) stressed that public officials must give full account of their stewardship, particularly in light of the significant grants and public funds managed by the Agency.
Responding on behalf of the REA, the Executive Director, Corporate Services, Mr. Gboyega Ayoade, tendered an unreserved apology to the Committee. He appealed for more time, maintaining that the Managing Director’s absence was neither deliberate nor intended as a sign of disrespect.
Meanwhile, the National President of the Licensed Electrical Contractors Association of Nigeria (LECAN), High Chief Vitus Ofodum Vitus Ikenna, called on the Committee to mandate the engagement of certified electrical professionals for renewable energy projects across the country.
