The House of Representatives has urged the Nigerian Government to recommence the disbursement of funds for the N-Power and other Social Investment Programmes (SIP) to alleviate the suffering faced by vulnerable Nigerians.
The call came as a result of the adoption of a motion of Urgent Public Importance put forward by Hon. Billy Osawaru. Osawaru emphasized that restarting the payments for these programs would significantly mitigate poverty and hunger across the nation.
The House noted with concern the suspension of the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and the dismissal of the National Coordinator of the Social Investment Program, which led to the cessation of these crucial assistance programs. This halt, the House pointed out, exacerbated the hardships faced by beneficiaries and posed a threat of social unrest.
The motion highlighted the recent incidents of looting of warehouses and food trucks in various cities, signalling the urgent need to address the escalating hunger and suffering among Nigerians.
The House stressed that resuming the Social Investment Programmes would not only address immediate needs but also contribute to the stability and development of the nation by ensuring equitable distribution of wealth.
The House criticized the proposed establishment of a steering committee overseen by the Minister of Finance to supervise the programs, deeming it abnormal. They argued that any changes to the oversight of these programs should be legislated and not merely executed by the executive branch.
The House also expressed relief at the interim report of the probe panel investigating the allegations against the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, which recommended the resumption of the programs.
“While there may be legislative actions to amend the National Social Investment Programme Agency Act 2023, up until the Act is completely amended, and enacted, the current status quo cannot be reviewed by mere executive action; Relieved that the interim report of the 6-man probe panel appointed by Mr. President to investigate the allegations surrounding the embattled Minister has recommended the resumption of the programme,”the motion read.
In its resolution, the House urged the Federal Government to expedite the investigation into the Minister’s conduct and advised against the establishment of the proposed Steering Committee Board until legislative amendments are made.