The House of Representatives Committee on Customs and Excise expressed dissatisfaction on Monday due to the absence of the Comptroller Generals of Nigeria Customs Service and Nigeria Immigration Service during its scheduled hearing. The committee referenced Section 88 of the Constitution, which grants the parliament authority to summon individuals and agencies to clarify the workings of government bodies whenever necessary.
The investigation was centered on the e-Customs project concession to the Trade Modernisation Project and the involvement of Webb Fontaine in the e-Customs framework. Despite the absence of the Minister of Interior and the heads of Customs and Immigration, the committee proceeded with the hearing. The committee chairman emphasized the importance of engaging directly with the heads of the agencies and the minister, as they were tasked with conducting the investigation on behalf of the government.
Members of the committee expressed disappointment at the non-appearance, highlighting the parliament’s power to compel attendance under Section 88 of the Constitution. It was deemed disrespectful to the parliament, and there were warnings of invoking powers to recommend removal from office if the officials failed to attend the next scheduled session.
The committee chairman emphasized the dual importance of the investigation in both enhancing government revenue through Customs modernization and ensuring national security. Despite the lawmakers’ busy schedules, they remained committed to the exercise, considering rescheduling the hearing post the passage of the 2025 budget proposal.