The House of Representatives Committee on Land Transport has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Minister of Transportation, Ahmed Alkali, demanding his appearance before lawmakers to explain the recent derailment of a Kaduna-bound train carrying over 618 passengers.
At its investigative hearing, the committee expressed deep disappointment that the minister ignored its invitation.
Committee Chairperson, Blessing Onuh, described the minister’s absence as “disrespectful to parliament and insensitive to Nigerians who deserve answers.”
“We seriously frown at this because our brothers and sisters were affected. This is not a minor issue,” Onuh said, adding that some lawmakers cut short their recess to attend the meeting.
Deputy House Spokesman, Phillip Agbese, did not mince words, accusing the minister of incompetence and urging that his disregard for parliament be reported to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“The minister’s absence is proof of inefficiency and neglect. Nigerians almost lost their lives. This committee must make it clear he is incompetent to hold office,” Agbese declared.
Another lawmaker, Cyril Hart, criticized Alkali’s conduct, noting that as a former parliamentarian, he should know better than to disrespect the legislature.
The lawmakers vowed to suspend the session until the minister personally appears, stressing that failure to comply would confirm that “there is no minister in the ministry.”
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