Sen. Neda enjoins Nigerians to approach committee for alternative resolutions
Senate Committee Chairman on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, Senator Neda Imasuen has called on Nigerians to approach the committee in their quest for alternative conflict resolution.
Senator Neda Imasuen (Edo South Senatorial District, LP) in an interaction with journalists in his NASS office on Tuesday, stresses that the committee which receives petitions from across the country, plays a pivotal role in resolving disputes and ensuring justice for citizens.
While highlighting the committee’s recent efforts in addressing issues brought before the committee, he gave insight into matter involving the University of Abuja and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
“Petitions are referred to the committee after being laid on the Senate floor, and the committee then invites parties and respondents and compliance”.
“One notable case involved a final-year student at the University of Abuja who was rusticated due to alleged involvement in student union activities. Despite having completed all exams and projects, the student was expelled.
“The student petitioned the Senate, and after two to three sessions of deliberation, the committee resolved that the university should reinstate the student. The university complied, allowing the student to complete their education ”.
The Labour Party senator further stated that another high profile case handled by his committee involved the NDLEA, where two children were shot, resulting in the death of one and the blinding of the other.
“The committee demanded a medical report, which confirmed that the cause of the death was gunshot wounds. The NDLEA admitted responsibility for the incident, though the circumstances remain under investigation. The committee has taken a strong stance on the matter, particularly regarding compensation for the victims’ families.
Senator Neda expressed dissatisfaction with the NDLEA’s initial offer of 20 million naira for the deceased child and the injured boy, calling it “abysmal.” The committee is now working with the Senate to ensure the family receives reasonable compensation.
Neda reiterated the commitment of the Committee to ensuring continuous role in addressing public grievances and upholding ethical standards in governance.
Concerned that most Nigerians are not even aware of the critical role the committee play in conflict resolution, charges journalists to use their media instrument in creating awareness amongst Nigerians, urged the public to take advantage of enormous role the committee plays in conflict resolution, which is less expensive, noting that as a committee, you don’t have to pay anything.
