Investigation into Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council Intensifies
The House of Representatives Select Committee probing the formation and functioning of the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC) has issued a stern warning to ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) that have failed to respond to its inquiries. This ultimatum highlights the potential for constitutional and legal consequences should these agencies continue to disregard the committee’s requests.
Lawmakers Demand Clarity on PFIPC’s Legitimacy
This warning arrives as the committee escalates its investigation into the establishment of the PFIPC, as lawmakers seek to uncover whether the organization was legally formed and if any public authorities enabled its operations outside the law.
Chairman’s Disappointment Over Noncompliance
In a statement released on Tuesday, Committee Chairman Yusuf Gaghdi expressed dissatisfaction with the absence of several government agencies at committee meetings, labeling this as a direct challenge to Parliament’s constitutional oversight. He emphasized that these institutions’ refusal to engage impedes an investigation intended to serve the public interest and to bring clarity to the council’s controversial role.
Constitutional Mandate for Accountability
The Committee underscored that the summons to the non-compliant MDAs was issued under Articles 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution, which grants the National Assembly the authority to probe administrative matters and ensure accountability in public institutions. Gaghdi reiterated that compliance with such parliamentary summons is a legal obligation, not a matter of choice.
Last Chance for Non-Compliant Institutions
The commission has mandated that all non-performing MDAs appear before it on Thursday, accompanied by the relevant officials and required documents. This scheduled hearing is billed as the final opportunity for these institutions to voluntarily adhere to the committee’s directives.
Consequences for Continued Noncompliance
The committee warned government agencies that fail to comply without valid legal grounds will compel the House of Representatives to exercise its constitutional powers to ensure compliance. Gaghdi stated he would not hesitate to recommend sanctions against any agency or official found obstructing the investigation.
Commitment to Transparency and Integrity
Gaghdi made it clear that this investigation is not a pursuit of personal vendettas, but rather a quest for factual clarity regarding the PFIPC’s operations and a means to uphold government integrity. He reiterated that the investigation aims to enforce the rule of law and ensures that no public entity acts beyond the legal frameworks established by the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The Committee remains steadfast in its dedication to conducting the investigation impartially and transparently. They have urged all affected institutions to treat the directives with the seriousness they warrant and to respond punctually to ensure accountability.
