On Wednesday, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, officially declared the seat of Edo State Deputy Governor, Denis Idahosa, vacant.
Idahosa had previously represented the Ovia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives before his election as Deputy Governor in the September 21, 2023, Edo State governorship election. He was inaugurated into his new role on November 12, 2023.
The announcement came after House Leader Julius Ihonvbere read Idahosa’s resignation letter on the floor of the House. Following this, Ihonvbere requested that the seat be declared vacant, setting in motion the process for electing a new representative for the people of Ovia Federal Constituency.
In a related matter, the House of Representatives, during plenary, called for an investigation into allegations of smuggling involving the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). The motion to probe the allegations was introduced by Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan, who represents the Badagry Constituency under the All Progressives Congress (APC). Whingan emphasized the negative impact of smuggling on Nigeria’s farmers, stating that smugglers put farmers at a significant disadvantage, which in turn harms the country’s economy.
Additionally, Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi, who represents the Ndokwa East/West/Ukwuani Federal Constituency, expressed support for the motion, asserting that the viral videos showing smuggling activities, reportedly uncovered by journalist Fisayo Soyombo, warranted a thorough investigation. Ezechi also pointed to disturbing footage of Customs officers allegedly abusing whistleblowers, calling for the Nigeria Customs Service to issue an apology to the Nigerian people for the conduct shown in the videos.
The House’s calls for an investigation into the smuggling allegations highlight growing concerns over corruption and misconduct within the country’s Customs operations. Lawmakers are urging for accountability and transparency, with the aim of addressing the broader impact of smuggling on Nigeria’s agricultural sector and economy.
