The House of Representatives has given Arise News and veteran journalist Reuben Abati a 24-hour deadline to issue an apology over remarks deemed derogatory towards the legislature’s activities.
Lawmakers cautioned that failure to apologize within the stipulated time frame would prompt them to take necessary action.
During plenary, Hon. Donald Ojogo raised the matter as an issue of privilege, stating that Abati’s comments disrespected both the House and its members. Citing Order 6, Rules 1, 2, 3, and 5 of the House Standing Orders, Ojogo argued that the remarks subjected the legislature to public ridicule, particularly regarding discussions on state creation.
Ojogo, representing Ilaje/Ese-Odo federal constituency, clarified that the Deputy Speaker’s recent announcement concerning state creation proposals was a procedural acknowledgment of requests from citizens, not an endorsement by the House itself. He expressed disappointment that this had been misinterpreted and sensationalized in the media.
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He stated: “The Honourable House of Representatives, under the esteemed leadership of our Speaker, is not merely another government institution but a symbol of the authority vested in us by the Nigerian people, whom we are honored to represent.
“In performing our constitutional duties as outlined in the 1999 Constitution (as amended), and in line with the rules of this Honourable House, the Deputy Speaker announced proposals from Nigerians requesting state creation. This was a procedural obligation, not a legislative initiative from the House. Sadly, this has been distorted and misrepresented, leading to various public reactions.”
Ojogo specifically called out Abati’s commentary as particularly offensive.
“One response has crossed the boundaries of decorum, professionalism, and respect, violating the ethics of journalism and infringing upon the privileges of this Honourable House. I bring to the attention of this House a derogatory and offensive comment made by Reuben Abati of Arise News Television,” Ojogo stated.
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