Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon Yakubu Dogara, admitted yesterday that the leadership crisis rocking the National Assembly since its inauguration, had taken huge toll on the legislature, saying that it is time for the federal lawmakers to settle down to work as elected representatives of the people.
He, however, said it was time lawmakers resolved the disagreements and settle for serious legislative businesses.
The Speaker spoke at the inauguration of the committee for the Review of Existing Laws and Law Reform.
Admitting that the crisis engulfing the two chambers of the National Assembly was a huge distraction to the lawmakers, Dogara admonished his colleagues to focus on the real reason they were elected.
The Speaker said the House was resolutely committed to expeditious passing of all major bills before it so as to impact positively on the lives and well-being of Nigerians.
He explained that the committee was informed by the need to review the various laws which, he said, were obsolete, anachronistic and outdated.
Dogara noted that by the provision of Section 315 of the Constitution, all existing laws, including the military era legislations, were deemed to be Acts of the National Assembly.
According to the Speaker, “the Eighth Assembly has had a few distractions, but it is time to get on to the job for which we were elected. Apart from reviewing existing legislations, law reform involves introduction of new laws where necessary.
“Laws that aid the anti-corruption struggle, infrastructure renewal, efficient and optimal utilization of our petroleum resources, solid minerals, education and social services, agriculture, diversification of our economy and massive employment of our teeming youthful population should engage our undivided attention as a parliament.
“The good news, however, is that the Eighth House of Representatives is resolutely committed to expeditious passing all major bills before it or submitted to it that will impact positively on the lives and well-being of Nigerians. This is the irrevocable undertaking enshrined in our legislative agenda,” he said.
Members of the committee are, Hon. Mohammed Tahir Monguno; Hon. Razak Atunwa; Hon. Ken Chikere; Hon. Madubueze Peter Obiano; Hon. Olabode Ayorinde; Hon. Simon Arabo; NBA President, Austin Alegeh; NBA Secretary, Mr. Afam Osigwe; Prof C. O. Okonkwo; former NBA president, Olisa Agbakoba; Prof Auwalu Yadudu; Prof Oyelowo Oyewo; Prof Joash Amupitan; Dr. Ladi Hamalai and Prof Okechukwu Oko li.
Other members include Kefas Magaji; Mrs. Oguneye; Mr. M. A. Sani Omolori; Hon. C. I. D. Maduabum; Dr. S. A. Danwanka and Prof Ade Adekunle.
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