Expressions of frustration by Senators emerged on Tuesday regarding the state of the reconstructed Chamber, which they criticized as resembling a mere ‘conference room’.
Since plenary recommenced last week in the refurbished Senate Chambers, controversy has surrounded the facility.
Disarray marked last Tuesday’s plenary session as some Senators engaged in disputes over seating arrangements in the revamped chamber.
During Tuesday’s plenary session, dissatisfaction with the quality of the Chambers sparked a chaotic 15-minute session, ultimately leading to the Senate going into an executive session.
The Chief Whip of the Senate and representative of Borno South, Ali Ndume, highlighted the issues under Order 42 of the Senate Standing Rules, stating, “What was once a Chamber has been transformed into a Conference Hall,” a situation he deemed unacceptable.
“Mr. President, I am here to share concerning observations regarding this supposedly renovated Chamber through Order 42 that pertains to personal privileges.
“Since day one, precisely last week Tuesday when we relocated to this Chamber after renovation, several complaints have emerged.
“Initially, there were issues with seating arrangements, followed by poor microphone sound quality, absence of voting devices, and lacking necessary facilities,” Ndume expressed.
Supporting Ndume’s remarks, Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, acknowledged the observations and upheld the Point of Order.
He clarified to Ndume that the seating arrangement concerns among senators had been resolved, while also noting that the renovation contract was not undertaken by the 10th National Assembly.
“This contract is not ours, nor that of the National Assembly, but rather the Federal Capital Development Authority’s contract, the landlords of the National Assembly Complex,” Akpabio clarified.