House Diaspora Committee Chair Apologises to Nigerians Abroad

By Dipo Olowookere

The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Diaspora Affairs, Ms Tolulope Akande-Sadipe, has apologised to Nigerians living abroad over comments made by the Deputy Speaker of the lower chamber of the parliament, Mr Ahmed Wase.

What actually happened

Mr Wase had rejected an attempt by a member of the House representing Gwer East/West Federal Constituency of Benue State, Mr Mark Gbillah, to submit a petition on behalf of Tiv people living in the United States of America (USA).

According to the Deputy Speaker, Nigerians in the diaspora have no locus standi (the right or capacity) to be involved in matters concerning the country because they do not live in Nigeria.

Reactions and threats followed

His remarks angered some Nigerians living in Europe, the Americas, Asia, Oceania, the Middle East and Africa, who demanded a reversal of Mr Wase’s stance.

The Nigerians, under the aegis of Nigerians in Diaspora Worldwide, threatened that if this was not done in two weeks, they would withhold the over $23 billion yearly remittances to the country.

They argued that the Mutual Union of Tiv in America has the capacity to complain about issues relating to land grab in Benue State and that their petition must be looked into by the parliament as the matter concerns the alleged take-over of their ancestral lands by some persons.

Tolulope Akande-Sadipe wades in

In a statement dated Tuesday, March 16, 2021, which was obtained by Business Post, the Chairman of the House Committee on Diaspora Affairs said she was sorry for the agony of Nigerians in the diaspora, most especially people of Tiv descent, noting that her team has received the petitions and has begun investigation on them.

“Your numerous petitions and messages have been well received by me, compiled and is being investigated by the Leadership of the House and the Diaspora Committee.

“This issue is of utmost importance to the House of Representatives and it will be resolved in a matter of days,” she was quoted as saying in the statement.

Ms Akande Sadipe stressed that the House would continue to value and prioritise the needs and requests of Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora.