Senate Clarifies Powers Over Witness Summons, Disowns Arrest Order Against Mele Kyari

Senate Clarifies Powers Over Witness Summons, Disowns Arrest Order Against Mele Kyari

The Senate has clarified that the power to compel the appearance of witnesses or issue warrants of arrest in legislative proceedings rests solely with the Presiding Officer, in line with its constitutional authority and established parliamentary practice.

This position followed deliberations arising from a motion moved by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, during plenary.

The upper chamber also distanced itself from remarks attributed to Senator Adams Oshiomhole during an investigative session of the Senate Public Accounts Committee, where he was reported to have described the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as “a bunch of criminals and thieves.”

Reaffirming its commitment to decorum and institutional integrity, the Senate stressed that such statements do not represent its official position and urged lawmakers to maintain restraint during official proceedings.

The Senate further disowned a warrant of arrest issued by a committee for the former Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL, Mele Kyari, stating that such enforcement actions fall outside the jurisdiction of standing committees.

It emphasized that all investigative processes must adhere strictly to due process, fair hearing, and the established rules guiding legislative oversight functions.

In response, Senator Adams Oshiomhole explained that his comments were made in the heat of the moment following what he described as provocative remarks from a respondent. He added that he had no objection to tendering an apology if his words were deemed inappropriate.

The Senate reiterated its dedication to fairness, institutional discipline, and respect for all individuals who appear before its committees.

Senate Clarifies Powers Over Witness Summons, Disowns Arrest Order Against Mele Kyari