The recent bribery scandal involving the Nigerian House of Representatives has created significant tension between Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu. The controversy arose from allegations of corruption within an ad hoc committee formed to investigate the petroleum downstream sector, leading to the committee’s abrupt disbandment by the Speaker.
The decision to dissolve the committee was announced by House spokesman Hon. Akin Rotimi, who cited the need to ensure the effectiveness and independence of the investigation. This move, however, has reportedly angered loyalists of Deputy Speaker Kalu, who view it as a public humiliation of their leader. Sources indicate that Kalu had previously defended the committee, which has been accused of demanding a $10 million bribe to prevent the dismissal of key officials in the petroleum sector.
In response to the scandal, 23 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) submitted a petition to the Speaker, calling for an investigation into the committee’s actions and urging the suspension of its chairman, Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere. The CSOs have accused the committee of engaging in corrupt practices, including extortion and blackmail, and have requested that the Inspector General of Police take action against the implicated lawmakers.
The conflict escalated during a meeting of principal officers of the House, where Deputy Speaker Kalu reportedly expressed support for the disbanded committee, leading to a heated exchange with Speaker Abbas. This confrontation is believed to have influenced Abbas’s decision to dissolve the committee.
The disbanded committee was tasked with investigating critical issues such as the importation of adulterated petroleum products and the ongoing challenges faced by domestic refineries. However, its tenure has been marred by controversies, particularly regarding its handling of disputes involving the Dangote Refinery and regulatory authorities.
As the situation unfolds, the Speaker’s decision to create a new committee composed of members selected for their integrity and expertise signals a push for accountability and transparency within the House. However, the underlying tensions between the Speaker and Deputy Speaker may complicate efforts to address the serious allegations of corruption that have emerged.
