COVID-19 Lockdown: Reps to sit once a week

The House of Representatives has resolved to sit at least once a week for plenary until the lockdown order is lifted.

This was a resolution passed on Tuesday without any debate by the Green Chamber consequent upon the passage of a motion by a member, Rep. Abubakar Hassan Fulata.

The motion with the title: “Regulating Plenary Sittings in the Period of COVID-19 Pandemic and Lockdown, pursuant to Order one, Rule 1 (2) 0f the Standing Orders of the House of Representatives,” was supported by all members.

Fulata while moving the motion said: “The House notes that on Tuesday, 24 March 2020, the House of Representatives adjourned plenary sessions for a period of two weeks to enable members to enlighten their constituents on the dangers of Coronavirus infection, also known as COVID-l9.

” Also notes that because of the lockdown order issued by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on Sunday 29 March 2002, the resumption which was earlier scheduled for 7 April, 2020 was suspended and subsequently adjourned indefinitely;

” Aware of the constitutional responsibility of the National Assembly to make laws for the peace, order and good government of the Federation or any part thereof and which responsibility could not be discharged because of the lockdown order.

” Also aware of the provisions of Order Five, Rules 4 and 5 of the Standing Orders of the House of Representatives which regulate the sittings of the House from Monday to Friday on every legislative day except when it is on recess;

“Further aware of the Stimulus Plan of the Federal Government to cushion the effects of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Nation’s economy;

“Desirous to provide legislative support to the Executive Arm by approving measures to address the welfare of the citizens during the period of the lockdown, as well as the period after the lockdown.”

The motion, which was adopted without debate, was passed with no dissention when the Speaker, Rep. Femi Gajabiamila called for a voice vote.