Reps begin probe of sex scandal
The House of Representatives on Tuesday commenced the probe of the sexual allegation made against three lawmakers by the United States envoy in Nigeria by mandating its committees on Ethics and Privileges and Foreign Affairs to investigate the alleged misconduct.
This resolution followed the unanimous adoption of the motion sponsored under Order six, Rule 2 and 22 of the House Standing Orders by one of the accused House member at the centre of the scandal, Rep. Mark Gbillah (APC-Benue).
Miving the motion, Rep. Gbillah, described the action of the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. James Entwhistle as a move to tarnish the image of the three law-makers and that of the House.
The law-maker denied that the incident as alleged by the envoy occurred and therefore, called on the ambassador to provide Nigeria with proof that the law-makers named in the allegation committed the crime.
He further said that none of the accused House members were interrogated by US authorities and cautioned against drawing any conclusion on the matter until it had been properly investigated.
Contributing to the debate on the motion, Rep. Nnena Elendu-Ukeje, the chairman, House Committee on Foreign Affairs, said the matter should be treated with utmost caution so as not to jeopardised Nigeria/US relations.
In his ruling, Speaker of the House, Yakubu Dogara urged Nigerians to tread with caution until the persons were proven guilty and thereafter, referred the matter to the relevant committees for further legislative action in line with international best practices.
