NASS Committees Can Summon Officials, Demand Docs Under Sections 88-89 Constitution
Premium Times reports that Nigeria's House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee and other committees derive authority from Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution to summon public officials, demand document production, take evidence on oath, and issue warrants for non-compliance.
This reinforces legislative oversight capacity, meaning officials who ignore summons face legal compulsion to appear—strengthening accountability mechanisms that directly impact governance transparency and anti-corruption efforts affecting all Nigerians. When officials comply, it deters mismanagement of public funds; when they resist, warrants enable compulsory appearance, reinforcing that no official is above legislative scrutiny.
Citizens should recognize these constitutional oversight tools exist; knowing officials can be compelled to testify may encourage engagement with accountability processes or reporting of suspected misconduct through proper channels like the EFCC or ICPC.