The House of Representatives has dismissed calls for the cancellation of the 2026 National Assembly Open Week, insisting that the annual legislative engagement will go ahead as scheduled despite the recent disagreement among lawmakers over budget implementation.

 

Deputy Spokesperson of the House, Hon. Philip Agbese, gave the assurance on Sunday while addressing journalists in Abuja, saying the budget-related controversy that played out during last Wednesday’s plenary would not affect the House’s commitment to promoting transparency, accountability and public engagement through the Open Week initiative.

 

Agbese was reacting to suggestions in some quarters that the event should be shelved following the rowdy session that erupted over a motion seeking to invite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to appear before the House to explain issues surrounding the implementation of the national budget, particularly constituency projects.

 

He dismissed the calls as unnecessary, stressing that members of the House remain committed to both their constitutional responsibilities and the annual programme.

 

According to him, lawmakers will participate fully in the National Assembly Open Week, describing it as a flagship initiative of the 10th House under the leadership of Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.

“Though things are critical, members will never abdicate their primary responsibility of lawmaking for any other thing or whatever grouse they may have,” Agbese said.

 

He added: “NASS Open Week has come to stay. It has helped to showcase our activities to major stakeholders across the globe, including cooperation with other parliamentary institutions and development partners.”

 

The lawmaker explained that the event has become an important platform for opening the legislature to citizens, civil society organisations, development partners and other stakeholders, allowing Nigerians to better understand the workings of the National Assembly and the legislative process.

 

On the budget controversy, Agbese maintained that the House does not require the President’s appearance to resolve concerns over budget implementation, noting that ministers, heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation are the officials directly responsible for implementing appropriated funds.

 

He said the National Assembly would continue to exercise its constitutional oversight powers by engaging the relevant public officials to account for budget implementation and ensure that projects approved in the Appropriation Act are executed effectively.

 

Agbese also commended Speaker Abbas for his handling of the tense plenary session, describing his conduct as a demonstration of maturity, fairness and strict adherence to the House Rules.

He urged Nigerians not to politicise the House’s oversight responsibilities, assuring that lawmakers remain focused on ensuring accountability in the management of public resources while sustaining initiatives that deepen legislative openness and public trust.

 

The National Assembly Open Week is scheduled to commence on July 14, with members of the House expected to join stakeholders from across the country and the international parliamentary community in activities aimed at strengthening transparency, citizen engagement and democratic governance.