The House of Representatives on Tuesday resolved to sit at least once a week for plenary until the lockdown order is lifted.
The resolution was passed on Tuesday, at plenary without any debate by the Green Chamber, following a motion by Hon. 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 note 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.”
He added that this became “limperative for the House to lend support to the executive arm of government in its stimulus plan to cushion the effects of COVID-19 pandemic on the nation’s economy.
The motion, which was adopted without debate, was passed with no dissention when the Speaker, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila called for a voice vote.
