Lawmakers at the House of Representatives
House of Representatives has laid down a firm ultimatum in its ongoing investigation into the Naira-for-Crude Oil Policy, giving all involved stakeholders seven days—until Nov. 27—to submit their outstanding documents.
The directive came from the Chairman of the Ad hoc Committee on Implementation and Oversight of the policy, Rep. Boniface Emerengwa (PDP–Rivers), during an abridged hearing in Abuja on Thursday. The committee expressed frustration after several invited organisations failed both to provide required paperwork and to appear before lawmakers.
“The investigative hearing scheduled for today, 20th November, 2025, has been adjourned due to the gross negligence and lack of seriousness displayed by relevant stakeholders,” Emerengwa declared, clearly displeased by the no-shows.
He criticised the defaulting parties for ignoring the committee’s notices, saying their conduct “has not only undermined the integrity of the committee’s work but has also cast a shadow of unseriousness over a matter of national importance.”
According to him, refusing to comply amounts to “a blatant disregard for the legislative process and a disrespect to the Nigerian people whose interests we are mandated to protect.”
Emerengwa stressed that the extension would be the final grace period, adding that the rescheduled investigative hearing will now hold on Dec. 2, 2025, at 12:00 a.m. in Conference Room 440. “This date is final and non-negotiable,” he warned.
The lawmaker did not mince words on the consequences awaiting defaulters. He cautioned that continued non-compliance could trigger the committee’s “full legislative powers,” including summonses, subpoenas, public naming and shaming, and possible recommendations for sanctions by regulatory or executive bodies. The issue could also be escalated to the House plenary for tougher disciplinary action.
Emerengwa reiterated that the committee was set up to safeguard transparency, accountability and proper oversight of a policy with significant implications for Nigeria’s economic stability and national development.
He urged all stakeholders to “treat the ultimatum with the seriousness it deserved,” emphasising that the Naira-for-Crude policy sits at the heart of the country’s economic sovereignty. Stakeholders are expected to submit the required documents before the new deadline and be fully prepared to appear at the next hearing.
NAN
