House Committee Resolves 200 Petitions in Three Years

The House Committee on Public Petitions, chaired by Bitrus Kwamoti Laori, reported receiving 890 petitions from citizens over three years, successfully resolving 200. Laori disclosed these figures during a retreat organized with the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) and supported by the European Union.

He stated that the committee had presented 70 reports to the House, with others pending consideration. Laori emphasized the committee's role in addressing grievances and promoting accountability but lamented that some ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) often failed to respond to invitations, delaying resolutions.

The retreat focused on reviewing performance, improving petition-handling procedures, and considering digital tools for better management. Dr Clement Nwankwo, Executive Director of PLAC, highlighted the committee's importance in providing accessible justice for Nigerians.

Bashir Abubakar, Chief Commissioner of the Public Complaints Commission, called for stronger collaboration to enhance citizens' access to justice.