A heated session erupted in the House of Representatives on Tuesday as lawmakers clashed over the alleged non-funding of constituency projects, resulting in a rowdy debate that briefly disrupted proceedings.
The controversy began when Alex Mascot, who represents Aba North/Aba South Federal Constituency of Abia State, moved a motion expressing concern over the persistent lack of funding for constituency projects across the country.
During the debate, a proposal emerged calling for President Bola Tinubu to be summoned before the House to explain the delay in funding the projects. The proposal was seconded by another lawmaker, while an amendment was also introduced suggesting that the House suspend legislative activities for one week until the issue was resolved.
The proposals sparked sharp divisions among lawmakers.
Yusuf Gagdi opposed the move, arguing that summoning the President was unnecessary because the responsibility for implementing and funding constituency projects rests with the relevant government agencies rather than the President. He also rejected the suggestion that the House should shut down for a week, describing it as unjustified.
Gagdi’s counter-position was met with strong opposition from several members, leading to a heated exchange on the floor as lawmakers shouted across the chamber and traded arguments, throwing the House into a rowdy session.
As tensions escalated, Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, intervened to restore order and directed that members vote to determine the House’s position on the matter.
The Speaker subsequently ruled that the proposal to invite President Bola Tinubu was out of order, explaining that it was not part of the original motion presented by Alex Mascot.
The order was eventually restored, allowing the House to continue with its legislative business.