Reps dismiss ‘showdown’ rumours, reaffirm unity under Abbas

The House of Representatives has dismissed reports of an impending leadership crisis, insisting that it remains united and committed to transparency, inclusiveness, and fairness in carrying out its constitutional mandate.

Akin Rotimi, spokesperson of the House, said in a statement on Sunday that while members are free to air personal opinions, such remarks should not be mistaken for official caucus resolutions.

“Informal conversations are normal in a vibrant democracy but cannot represent official positions,” he said.

“It is to the Speaker’s credit that, despite this diversity, the 10th Assembly has remained united, reaching common positions on national issues through consensus building and allowing every member a voice.”

Rotimi said the House, under speaker Tajudeen Abbas, is focused on resumption on September 23, with renewed commitment to national priorities.

On Project Payments And Recruitment

The spokesman also clarified concerns around delayed payments for constituency projects, noting that it is a nationwide challenge and not peculiar to lawmakers.

“For many weeks, the House leadership, through the appropriations committees, has engaged the minister of finance,” he said.

”Payments have commenced and the leadership is committed to ensuring all outstanding 2024 obligations are settled expeditiously.”

On recruitment into the national assembly bureaucracy, Rotimi explained that the process is handled by the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC), not lawmakers.

He added that the speaker has directed the House committee on public service matters to investigate the exercise to ensure compliance with federal character and fairness.

Rotimi further rejected claims that development was being concentrated in one part of the country, describing such suggestions as “false, divisive, and unhelpful”.

“The House operates on principles of equity, justice, and fairness. Internal disagreements are addressed through established parliamentary mechanisms, not speculative newspaper reports,” he said.