Senate, reps cut short recess, to hold emergency plenary on eve of protest

The senate and house of representatives will hold an emergency plenary on Wednesday.

Akin Rotimi, spokesperson of the house of representatives, disclosed this in a statement on Monday.

He said legislators will discuss “critical matters” affecting the nation and urged members to be present.

“The Annual Recess provides Honourable Members with the opportunity to engage extensively with their constituencies, ensuring that the legislative process remains attuned to public input,” Rotimi  said.

“This period also allows for in-depth engagements at the grassroots, facilitating a deeper understanding of the constituents’ needs and priorities.

“It is, however, customary for the House to reconvene from recess to address pressing national issues.

“The forthcoming session will focus on critical matters requiring immediate legislative attention.

“Honourable Members are expected to make the necessary arrangements to ensure their presence.”

Rotimi said Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of the house of representatives, will also engage young Nigerians through a town hall meeting at the national assembly on Wednesday.

“This town hall is a key component of the Legislative Agenda of the 10th House, which emphasises sustained youth engagement and the promotion of youth political participation,” Rotimi said.

“It is designed to provide a platform for young Nigerians to voice their concerns, share their ideas, and engage directly with legislative leaders on issues impacting their lives and futures.

“This initiative aims to bridge the gap between policymakers and the younger generation, ensuring that policies and laws are inclusive and address the specific needs of the youth.”

On July 23, the senate and house of representatives embarked on their annual recess to resume on September 17.

The emergency plenary comes in the wake of a planned youth-led nationwide protest on August 1 over the economic hardships faced by Nigerians.