By Fatima Saka
The Nigerian Senate has instructed the Federal Government to abolish and consolidate numerous ministries, parastatals, agencies, commissions, and boards in order to reduce the expenses of governance.
Previously, the Nigerian government had expressed its intention to implement the recommendations of the Steve Oronsaye committee report, which proposed the elimination of ministries such as the National Film And Video Censors Board (NFVCB) as a cost-saving measure.
During a discussion, the Senate emphasized the importance of consulting the National Assembly before any such actions are taken.
Following a motion put forward by Senator Ogoshi Onawo Mohammed of Nasarawa South Senatorial District on Tuesday, titled “Urgent Need to Halt the Violation of the National Film and Video Censors Board,” it was revealed that a presidential committee led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, had initiated the implementation of the Oronsaye report without involving the Legislature.
According to Senator Ogoshi Onawo, a cabinet memorandum signed by Akume instructed the Minister of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy to dissolve the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) and integrate it as a department within the ministry rather than operating as a separate federal agency.
The motion also highlighted the Senate’s concern that this directive contravenes the National Film and Video Censors Board Act, Cap 40, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 as amended.
Senator Ogoshi Onawo expressed that the government’s actions would be deemed illegal since they did not seek the necessary legislative input from the National Assembly.
In its resolution, the Senate advised the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and the minister to immediately halt the dissolution of the National Film and Video Censors Board if indeed the government had commenced the process.
Furthermore, Senate President Godswill Akpabio urged caution among his colleagues, emphasizing the need for parliamentary approval if any Acts were to be repealed in accordance with due process.
