By Christiana Ekpa
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Abbas Tajudeen, has strongly condemned the rising wave of violence in parts of the country, particularly in Borno, Plateau, Benue, and Kwara states.
Speaking during yesterday’s plenary, Abbas decried the renewed terrorist attacks in the North-East, highlighting a deadly bombing near Gamboru that claimed many civilian lives.
“The resurgence of terrorist attacks in the North-East, particularly a deadly bombing near Gamboru, has claimed many civilian lives. The House unequivocally condemns these attacks on innocent citizens,” he said, urging security agencies to take swift and decisive action.
Turning to the economy, Abbas cited the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) 2025 Article IV consultation, which commended Nigeria’s efforts to end Central Bank deficit financing and remove fuel subsidies.
He assured that the House would support economic stability through legislation.
The Speaker also raised the alarm over impending floods across more than 30 states.
“I call on all relevant committees to review the country’s emergency preparedness, propose mitigation strategies, and provide oversight over legislative frameworks on disaster risk management and climate resilience,” he said.
Abbas revealed plans for a joint high-level Committee on Reconciliation, in collaboration with the Senate.
“We shall work with the Senate to constitute a high-level Committee on Reconciliation… to facilitate dialogue, promote peace, and support the restoration of democratic order,” he stated.
He referenced the House’s quick constitutional response to the political crisis in Rivers State, following a presidential proclamation of a state of emergency.
“We also demonstrated unwavering fidelity to the Constitution in our swift response to the political unrest in Rivers State. Following the President’s transmission of a Proclamation of a State of Emergency, the House acted in accordance with Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to endorse the measure. Subsequently, we inaugurated a 21-member Ad-Hoc Committee, led by the Leader of the House, to exercise oversight of the caretaker administration and safeguard democratic accountability in the state. That Committee has since commenced its engagement with stakeholders on the ground,” he explained.
Looking ahead, Abbas emphasized the need to fast-track key legislation, especially around constitutional amendments and electoral reforms.
“We must now move decisively to expedite the consideration and passage of critical bills that directly affect Nigerians’ stability, prosperity, and well-being,” he urged.
As the 10th House nears its second anniversary, Abbas announced a series of public engagement events, including a Public Policy Dialogue on May 12, media roundtables in June, and a House Open Week from July 1 to 4.
“These activities reflect our values as the People’s House and offer critical platforms for evaluating our work, refining our agenda, and projecting our collective vision,” he noted.
“I encourage you to continue as we have begun and recommit ourselves to national service and legislative excellence,” Abbas added.
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