The House of Representatives has reaffirmed its loyalty and support for Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, dismissing reports of an impending rift over delayed payments for constituency projects.
In a statement on Sunday, House spokesman Akin Rotimi described the report by Leadership Newspapers as misleading, stressing that isolated remarks from informal WhatsApp discussions had been exaggerated to suggest a looming crisis.
“The House of Representatives remains firmly united under the leadership of Rt Hon Abbas Tajudeen, GCON,” the statement read. “With 360 members drawn from diverse political, ethnic, and religious backgrounds, the 10th Assembly continues to operate on consensus and inclusiveness.”
Rotimi clarified that while members are free to express personal concerns, only issues formally presented through caucuses, committees, or on the floor of the chamber represent the House’s official stance.
On the issue of delayed contractor payments, the House explained that the challenge is not unique to constituency projects but part of a broader national fiscal reality. It noted that the leadership has been engaging with the Ministry of Finance through the Appropriations Committees and that payments have already commenced.
“Constituency projects remain vital to delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, by ensuring government presence in all communities. While members’ concerns are valid, they must be viewed within prevailing fiscal circumstances,” the statement added.
Addressing allegations of lopsided staff recruitment, Rotimi emphasized that the process is conducted by the National Assembly Service Commission, an independent body guided by principles of federal character, inclusiveness, and merit. Nevertheless, Speaker Abbas has directed the House Committee on Public Service Matters to investigate the recruitment process and report back.
The House dismissed suggestions of regional bias in development, describing them as “false, divisive, and unhelpful.”
Reaffirming its priorities, the Green Chamber said it remains focused on national interests as members prepare to resume on September 23, 2025.
“The leadership of the House is committed to transparency, fairness, and inclusiveness in lawmaking, oversight, and representation. Members are urged to sustain this spirit of collective responsibility in the service of the nation,” the statement concluded.
