The Presidency on Monday called on all heads of ministries, departments and agencies of the federal government to always honour invitations for appearances at the National Assembly in line with the existing harmonious working relationship between the executive and legislature.
The admonition came barely 24 hours after the Senate threatened to issue a warrant of arrest against some heads of MDAs by the Senate over their refusal to appear before its Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions to answer petitions and queries against them.
Specifically, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Senate Matters, Senator Basheer Lado, pointed out in a statement he personally signed that collaboration between the two arms of government is very critical for the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President.
He said: “The President’s Renewed Hope Agenda is built on the premise of quick and efficient governance, one that brings tangible democracy dividends to the people without delay.
“A critical part of realizing this vision involves a proactive, respectful, and transparent relationship between government bodies and the Senate in its oversight role.
“The Office has noted some concerns that some agencies may not have consistently adhered to Senate invitations or requests for appearances before committees.
“While we acknowledge that competing official engagements may sometimes make it challenging for agencies to respond promptly to Senate invitations, it remains essential that these opportunities for engagement are prioritized to demonstrate our continued collective commitment to accountability and good governance.
“Engaging with Senate committees is an important opportunity for agencies to showcase their dedication to public service and accountability, while further reinforcing the people’s confidence in government.”
He added that his office will continue working for the very important constructive collaboration between ministries, extra-ministerial departments and agencies, and the NATIONALITY Assembly, particularly its Senate committees, as a cornerstone of good governance and accountability.
The Senate had last week threatened the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi; Head of Service of the Federation Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack; Chairman of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, NiDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, and some others with the issuance of a warrant of arrest against them for ignoring invitations from its committee.
Other chief executives, who also risked the warrant of arrest are those of the Union Homes Savings and Loans Plc, Enugu Electricity Distribution Company and Sally Best Properties Limited.
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