Lawmakers at the House of Representatives
House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee investigating the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC) has criticised several Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) for failing to honour its summons.
The committee expressed its displeasure after Tuesday’s plenary, saying the absence of key officials was slowing down its investigation.
Lawmakers also faulted the Minister of Finance, Taiwo Oyedele, for sending a representative instead of appearing before the panel personally.
Chairman of the committee, Yusuf Gagdi, warned that the panel would not accept non-compliance with its directives and insisted that invited officials must appear in person.
He stressed that those who fail to comply with the committee’s invitation could face further legislative action.
The committee also summoned Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to explain how the PFIPC allegedly operated despite concerns about its legal status.
According to the panel, their appearance will help lawmakers establish the circumstances surrounding the council’s operations and address issues uncovered during the investigation.
The PFIPC is currently under legislative scrutiny, with the House seeking explanations from relevant government officials and agencies over its activities and legal standing.
Meanwhile, the House also resolved to investigate the deaths, losses and abandoned properties linked to recent xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa.
Lawmakers further urged the Federal Government to strengthen diplomatic engagement, pursue legal action where necessary and improve bilateral cooperation with South Africa to better protect Nigerians living in the country.
