On Tuesday, the House of Representatives faced an unprecedented situation as tensions surrounding the 2026 budget led to a complete halt in proceedings, with lawmakers adjourning without addressing any items on the day’s agenda. Such a development is rarely seen, typically only occurring when the chamber suspends sessions to honor a deceased member.
The adjournment followed a closed-door executive session that lasted about an hour, during which lawmakers engaged in a heated debate, indicating a growing divide over the budget process. As the House prepares to reconvene today, the anticipated discussion will likely focus on a significant loan request.
The agenda for Tuesday featured a comprehensive list, including 30 bills for first reading, 16 reports up for consideration, eight bills slated for second reading, and six motions for potential adoption. The session commenced with the arrival of Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and other principal officers before lawmakers entered a closed-door meeting.
Although no formal explanation was given for the abrupt adjournment, insiders suggested that the discussions were related to a one-week ultimatum issued to the Ministers of Finance, Budget and National Planning, along with the Accountant General of the Federation. This ultimatum called for the resolution of outstanding debts owed to local contractors.
Tensions flared when Ifeanyi Uzokwe, a representative from Anambra State, repeatedly sought recognition to raise a point of order but was disregarded by the Speaker. Instead, the Speaker moved on to make various announcements, including a notice for an emergency caucus meeting of the South West region. Despite being urged to approach the Speaker privately, Uzokwe’s persistence led to House Leader Prof. Julius Ihonvbere proposing a motion for adjournment, which was subsequently approved.
President Bola Tinubu had anticipated that the House would approve his request for a loan of N1.15 trillion aimed at addressing the 2025 budget deficit. However, lawmakers, reportedly upset over issues related to their own welfare and constituency funding, chose not to consider the request.
