Why We Recalled Members for Emergency Plenary — National Assembly

• The National Assembly recalled members for an emergency session to address planned nationwide protests over high costs, hunger, and poverty
• Memos urged lawmakers to attend the session, discussing urgent national matters ahead of protests scheduled from August 1 to 10, 2024

The National Assembly has explained that the need to avert a planned nationwide protest prompted the recall of its members for an emergency plenary session on Wednesday. The House and the Senate had recently begun their annual recess but were instructed to reconvene to address pressing national matters.

In an internal memo signed by the Clerk of the House, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, members were urged to “make necessary arrangements to attend, as important matters will be deliberated upon during this session,” with an apology for the “inconvenience caused by the interruption of the annual recess.”

Similarly, the Clerk of the Senate, Chinedu Akubueze, issued a memo requesting all senators to be present for the Wednesday emergency plenary to discuss “issues of national importance.”

While the memos did not specify the details of the emergency meeting, it was learned that the session would address the planned nationwide protests by various groups over the high cost of goods and services, hunger, and poverty. The protests are scheduled from August 1 to 10, 2024.

The Deputy Spokesperson of the House, Rep. Philiph Agbese, explained that the current situation warranted the House convening to discuss urgent issues facing the nation.

“This Parliament serves as a bridge between the executive and the citizens. Our interest is to foster peace and joy for the largest population of our people. We understand that most protesters have changed their minds, but we are concerned about everyone affected by the land’s hardship.

“As a serious-minded, pro-people, and welfarist parliament, we are committed to the welfare of the people. We aim to serve as a bridge between the executive and the Nigerian masses. We will engage with the executive and address disagreements, designing collaboration methods to avoid frequent protests. We believe the government should do more,” Agbese said.

Regarding attendance amidst reports that many lawmakers have travelled abroad, Agbese assured that “a good number of parliamentarians will be available on Wednesday. Parliamentary engagement allows members to rest and relate with their constituents, but in times of national emergencies, parliament will always convene. Before leaving for recess, members were aware that they could be called upon at any time in the interest of the people.”