House of Representatives Session Turns Rowdy Over Motion to Summon Tinubu
Abuja, Nigeria — July 9, 2026
A plenary session in Nigeria’s House of Representatives on Wednesday descended into a heated debate after lawmakers clashed over a motion seeking to invite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address the chamber on delays in implementing the 2025 Appropriation Act.
The motion was raised by Hon. Benedict Etanabene, who represents the Okpe/Sapele/Uvwie Federal Constituency in Delta State. During plenary, Etanabene cited a June 29 circular issued by the Accountant-General of the Federation directing federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to halt the processing of payments for constituency and zonal intervention projects until they receive clearance from the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs.
According to the lawmaker, the directive could further slow the execution of projects already approved under the national budget and affect development projects in constituencies across the country.
The proposal sparked strong reactions on the floor of the House. While some lawmakers supported inviting the President to explain the pace of budget implementation, others opposed the motion, arguing that the House should use other constitutional oversight mechanisms rather than summon the President directly.
The disagreement quickly escalated into a rowdy session, with lawmakers interrupting one another and repeatedly shouting “Sit down!” during the debate. Proceedings were briefly disrupted as members attempted to make their positions heard.
Another member, Hon. Mascot Ikwechegh, also expressed concern over the pace of budget implementation and the effect that delays in releasing funds could have on government programmes and constituency projects.
Following an extended debate, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas ruled against the motion, bringing the discussion to a close without approving the request to invite President Tinubu.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns within the National Assembly regarding the implementation of the federal budget and the timely release of funds for approved projects. Budget execution remains an important aspect of legislative oversight, with lawmakers expected to continue monitoring government spending and project delivery through committee hearings and other constitutional processes.
While the motion to summon the President was not adopted, discussions surrounding budget implementation are expected to remain a key issue in the House as lawmakers continue to assess progress on the execution of the 2025 Appropriation Act.
Sources: Naija News, July 9, 2026 roundup; proceedings reported from the House of Representatives.