Post by Ibadan Watch (@Ibadanwatch)

Reps Summon Foreign Affairs Minister, NSA Over PFIPC Probe.

The House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee investigating the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC) has criticised the failure of several Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to honour its summons, describing the absence of key government officials as a major setback to its ongoing investigation into the council's activities and legal status.

Speaking after Tuesday's plenary, Chairman of the committee, Yusuf Gagdi, expressed dissatisfaction with the level of compliance by invited officials. The panel also faulted the Minister of Finance for being represented by an official instead of appearing in person, insisting that those invited must personally account for issues relating to the investigation or risk further legislative action.

As part of its inquiry, the committee summoned the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, to explain the circumstances under which the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council allegedly operated despite questions surrounding its legal standing. Lawmakers said their testimonies would help clarify the council's operations and establish the facts surrounding its activities.

The committee maintained that the investigation is aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability and compliance with existing laws governing the establishment and operation of government agencies. It stressed that cooperation from all relevant public officials is necessary to enable the National Assembly carry out its constitutional oversight responsibilities effectively.

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives also resolved to investigate the impact of recent xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa. Lawmakers directed the House Committees on Diaspora and Foreign Affairs to document casualties, economic losses and abandoned properties, while recommending diplomatic and legal measures to safeguard Nigerians living in the country.

The resolutions followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Babajimi Benson, representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency of Lagos State. The House urged the Federal Government to intensify diplomatic engagement with South Africa, strengthen bilateral cooperation and pursue appropriate legal channels to ensure justice for affected Nigerians and prevent similar incidents in the future.

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