The Public Petitions Committee of the House of Representatives has ordered the Head of Niger Delta Presidential Amnesty Programme to appear on 19th March, 2024 or face warrant of arrest.
This follows a petition by M. P. Anaukyaa & Co. against the Niger Delta Presidential Amnesty Programme, appealing for intervention over the plight of ex-Niger Delta agitators.
The petitioners have always been present while the respondent have failed to appear at the hearings.
On 30th January, 2024, the Committee unanimously agreed that the Third Summon on the petition shall be live on National television, for Nigerians to hear the ill activities of the Niger Delta Presidential Amnesty Programme against the citizens.
The Committee expressed their disappointment after the respondent failed again to appear on 14th February, 2024. Perhaps they are afraid to appear on national television.
The Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba led Committee therefore, have a final order for the Head of Niger Delta Presidential Amnesty Programme to appear on 19th March, 2024 or face warrant of arrest.
He reminded the responded that in every democratic government, the legislature remains the central institution that symbolises democracy. The legislature serves as an important arm of government, whose roles include checking the excesses of the executive and judiciary, and ensuring a safeguard of rights of the citizenry.
Those whose rights and privileges are violated expect legislative intervention, justice, fairness and redress while approaching the Committee. Petitions are fundamental rights of citizens and avenues by which they can have their voices heard on the floor of the parliament.
The Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba led Committee therefore, promised fair hearing and total justice for every Nigerian. The Committee has also promised to fight against any organisation that tries to violate rights of the citizens.
