Tensions rose in the House of Representatives on Tuesday as Hon. Obi Aguocha, representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency in Abia State, engaged in a heated confrontation with Speaker Tajudeen Abbas over the urgent medical condition of detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
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Aguocha raised a matter of privilege, complaining that a letter he submitted on August 26 to the Speaker, Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, and President Bola Tinubu regarding Kanu’s worsening health had yet to elicit a response. The lawmaker emphasized the urgent need for medical intervention, citing findings from a second evaluation by the Nigerian Medical Association, which reportedly revealed organ deficiencies, low potassium levels, and that Kanu is “on the verge of death.”
“This is not politics but a fundamental human right that should be extended to Nnamdi Kanu,” Aguocha said. “Most others in similar situations have been allowed to travel overseas for medical treatment. Kanu is neither convicted of any crimes in Nigeria and must be protected under the constitution.”
The debate quickly became tense as Speaker Abbas challenged Aguocha’s use of a “point of privilege” to demand action. “If it is something specific to the office of the Speaker, honourable, I find it a little intriguing that you come by way of privilege to demand action,” Abbas remarked. He noted that Aguocha had direct access to his office.
Aguocha insisted he had visited the Speaker and argued that the motion concerned a matter of life and death. However, Abbas maintained that the floor of the House was not the appropriate venue for such follow-ups, advising Aguocha to present the matter properly at a later date.
The exchange concluded with Abbas ruling Aguocha out of order. Yet, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu assured the House that the matter would be formally presented for debate later in the week.
“Mr Speaker, I’m also from Abia State. On the issue being raised by my colleague, we will present it properly before the House this week to ensure it receives proper hearing,” Kalu said.
Speaker Abbas responded: “No problem. It’s just the procedure that I was challenging, not the substance of the issue. We will be willing and ready to give you all the time to present.”
The House is now expected to debate the motion seeking urgent medical intervention for Nnamdi Kanu, with members set to discuss the matter in accordance with proper legislative procedures.
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