Reps Committee Threatens Arrest Warrant for Heads of Customs, NIMASA, NPA Over Alleged Non-Compliance

Nigeria’s House of Representatives Committee has threatened to issue arrest warrants against the chief executives of key government agencies, including the heads of the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, and the Nigerian Ports Authority, over their failure to honour invitations to appear before the lawmakers.

The warning was issued during a committee session in Abuja, where members expressed frustration at what they described as repeated disregard for parliamentary oversight. Lawmakers said several agencies had been summoned multiple times to provide explanations on issues related to financial records, operational activities, and compliance with legislative directives but had failed to respond adequately.

Committee members insisted that the National Assembly would not tolerate continued absence from agencies that are expected to account for their stewardship of public resources.

Lawmakers Decry Absence of Agency Chiefs

During the session, members of the House committee expressed strong displeasure at the absence of chief executives from the affected agencies. According to lawmakers, invitations had been sent well in advance, requesting the presence of the agency heads to answer questions regarding financial remittances and operational transparency.

The committee noted that the persistent failure to attend the hearings undermines the constitutional role of the legislature in overseeing government institutions. Members stressed that appearing before the National Assembly is a statutory obligation for public officials, particularly when matters involving public funds are under review.

Some lawmakers argued that ignoring legislative invitations could set a dangerous precedent if left unchecked, warning that it may weaken accountability mechanisms within government institutions.

Committee Possible Arrest Warrants Considered

Following the absence of the agency chiefs, the committee threatened to invoke its constitutional powers to compel compliance. Members indicated that if the officials fail to appear at the next scheduled hearing, the House may issue arrest warrants to ensure their presence.

Under Nigeria’s legislative framework, parliamentary committees possess the authority to compel individuals to appear before them when conducting investigations or oversight functions. Committee stated that the step would only be taken as a last resort but emphasized that it remains an available option if agencies continue to ignore invitations.

The committee also warned that such actions are not intended to embarrass public officials but to reinforce accountability and transparency within government operations.

Oversight and Accountability at the Centre of Dispute

Observers say the development highlights ongoing tensions between some government agencies and legislative oversight bodies. Committees of the House frequently summon heads of agencies to clarify budget implementation, revenue remittances, and compliance with statutory responsibilities.

Lawmakers reiterated that public institutions must remain accountable to elected representatives and the Nigerian public. They also urged the affected agencies to cooperate fully with the investigation to avoid further escalation of the situation.

The committe has scheduled another hearing and expects the chief executives of the concerned agencies to appear and provide the requested documents and explanations.