By Oluwakemi Kindness
The Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives has demanded a public apology from the Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Akin Rotimi Jnr., over the misrepresentation of the House’s position on insecurity and governance issues.
The caucus warned that it will petition the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges if the spokesman fails to apologise within 72 hours.
In a statement issued on Saturday after an emergency virtual meeting, Minority spokesperson, Afam Victor-Ogene, accuses the House spokesman of presenting a collective position of the House without approval from the chamber.
The caucus argued that no plenary session or official sitting had been held after June 15, 2026, to adopt any unified position, insisting that references to “House Notes” were not authorised by lawmakers.
The opposition lawmakers said the development breached parliamentary procedures and undermined legislative privileges.
They also raised concerns over the implementation of the national budget, alleging that security-related ministries, departments and agencies have recorded less than 30 per cent budget performance since 2024.
According to the lawmakers, inadequate funding releases, unpaid contractors and logistical challenges have weakened security operations across the country.
They argued that the armed forces and other security agencies are struggling to sustain operations because of poor budget implementation.
The caucus further accused the House leadership of failing in its oversight responsibility, insisting that the legislature must remain independent and hold the executive accountable.
It says the National Assembly has a constitutional duty to ensure accountability, expose inefficiency and protect the security and welfare of Nigerians.
The lawmakers also vowed to raise the issue of poor budget implementation in the security sector when the House resumes plenary and push for stronger oversight of public spending.
