On Monday, October 14, the Presidency directed the Head of Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, along with the leaders of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), to respond to Senate invitations.
This directive emphasizes the need for cooperation between government bodies and the National Assembly.
During a press conference in Abuja, Senator Basheer Lado, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Senate Matters, criticized certain agencies for not responding to Senate summons.
He highlighted the importance of engaging with Senate committees to demonstrate dedication to public service and to strengthen public confidence in the government.
“Honoring Senate invitations is not just a constitutional obligation, but it also aligns with President Tinubu’s vision for a responsive and accountable government,” Senator Lado stated. He added that this directive supports Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, which aims to provide effective governance to Nigerians.
The call from the Presidency follows the Senate’s recent announcement that it may issue warrants of arrest for some agency heads, including Mrs. Walson-Jack, Works Minister David Umahi, and NiDCOM Chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa, for repeatedly failing to appear before the Senate’s Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions.
Other agency leaders who may face potential arrest include the heads of Union Homes Savings and Loans Plc, Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, and Sally Best Properties Limited, as highlighted by the Senate Committee’s Chairman, Senator Neda Imasuen.
Senator Lado reiterated the administration’s commitment to transparency and stated that timely cooperation between the Executive and the Legislature is vital for achieving the government’s goals. He urged all MDAs to prioritize their Senate engagements, which he described as opportunities to showcase their commitment to accountability and good governance.
He concluded by reaffirming that the Office of the Special Adviser on Senate Matters is dedicated to facilitating communication between government agencies and the National Assembly, ensuring that all entities contribute effectively to national development.
