The House of Representatives has given the Minister of Transportation, Sa’idu Alkali, 48 hours to appear before it over last week’s derailment of an Abuja-Kaduna train, with over 600 passengers on board.
The House of Representatives Committee on Land Transport issued the summon on Tuesday after the minister failed to attend its investigative hearing on the incident.
Chairman of the Committee, Blessing Onuh, described Alkali’s absence as unacceptable and insensitive to citizens affected by the near tragedy.
Deputy spokesman of the House, Philip Agbese, was more scathing, saying Alkali’s action showed incompetence and disregard for Nigerians.
Another member of the committee, Cyril Hart, expressed disappointment that Alkali, a former lawmaker, chose to dishonour the parliament.
The committee concluded to suspend its hearing until the minister appeared in person, warning that his continued disregard would be reported directly to the President.
News edited by Favour Owonibi