- President Bola Tinubu’s directive to swiftly execute the 2012 Steve Oronsaye Report sparks caution from the House of Representatives
- Lawmakers urge Tinubu to thoroughly reassess the report, related documents, and White Papers before proceeding with implementation
President Bola Tinubu’s push to swiftly execute the 2012 Steve Oronsaye Report, advocating for the consolidation of various federal agencies and the abolition of others, has drawn caution from the House of Representatives.
Tinubu’s directive on Monday to implement the report, aimed at streamlining and reorganizing federal government bodies, has sparked concerns.
In response, the House urges Tinubu to thoroughly reassess the report, related documents, and White Papers before proceeding.
This resolution follows a motion of national urgency sponsored by Honourables Kama Nkemkanma, Olumide Osoba, and Jonathan Gaza Gbefwi.
The lawmakers express reservations about implementing a report issued “12 years ago,” highlighting the significant changes in society, economy, and technology since its inception.
They call for a review of subsequent reports, including the Goni Aji Report and White Papers from previous administrations, emphasizing the need for updated solutions aligned with current realities.
Furthermore, the House emphasizes the importance of implementing policies that bolster sectors like agriculture and solid minerals, providing alternatives for potential job losses while stimulating economic growth.
Nkemkanma, leading the debate, recalls the rejection of many Oronsaye Report recommendations by a White Paper Committee under President Jonathan’s administration, casting doubt on the report’s relevance today.
He points out the establishment of committees by President Buhari’s administration to review the Oronsaye Report and subsequent reports, culminating in forming a White Paper Committee led by Ebele Okeke.
Nkemkanma asserts that the full implementation of the Oronsaye report in 2024 may not significantly reduce governance costs and could lead to unintended consequences.
The motion receives unanimous approval and is referred to the ad-hoc committee investigating the restructuring of federal government agencies.