Kehinde Akintola – Abuja
Members of the House of Representatives, on Thursday, expressed overwhelming support for the Presidential Declaration Order on 10 newly designated National Parks by President Muhammadu Buhari.
The parks are: Allawa Game Reserve, Niger State; Apoi Forest Reserve, Bayelsa State; Edumenum Reserve, Bayelsa State; Falgore Game Reserve Kano State; and Baturiya Wetland Game Reserve, Jigawa State.
Others are Kampe Forest Reserve, Kwara State; Kogo Forest Reserve, Katsina State; Marhai Forest Reserve, Nasarawa State; Oba Hill Forest Reserve, Osun State; and Pandam Forest Reserve.
The resolution was passed sequel to the adoption of a motion sponsored by Deputy Majority Leader, Hon. Peter Akpatason.
In his lead debate, Hon. Doguwa recalled that the Declaration Order was signed on November 16, 2022, through which the 10 Parks across Nigeria as National Parks.
“The House also notes that in consonance with the provisions of Section 18 of the National Park Service Act, the President, communicated in writing requesting the concurrence of the House on the 10 New National Parks to wit: (i) Subject to this Act, the President with the concurrence of the National Assembly, may by order published in the gazette – (a)declare such areas in the Federation as he may deem fit as National Parks which shall be subject to the provisions of the Act; or,
“(ii) An order made under Subsection (i) of this section shall – (.a)set out the situation limits of each National Park;
(b)specify the intern management policy for the National Park, and (c) specify the classification of the ‘National Park’.
“The House is aware that the Declaration Order, 2022 set out; (a) the Declaration of new National Parks; (b) name, situation and limits of the new National Park; and
(c) constitution of the National Parks Management Committee.
Speaking against the motion, Deputy Minority Leader, Hon. Toby Okechukwu argued that the Declaration Order raised issues regarding the practicality of establishing additional national parks.
While acknowledging the right of the President to create such parks subject to the approval of Parliament, Hon. Okechukwu however, expressed concern at the dilapidated states of the existing National Parks.
The lawmaker who wondered if the provisions made to ensure the additional ones will be effectively managed, hence called on the House to decide from a position of knowledge and ensure a framework for effective management and safety of the parks is practised.
He further warned that the Parks which are ungoverned spaces can be taken over by bandits and terrorists if not carefully taken care of.
In his remarks, Deputy Speaker, Hon. Ahmed Idris stated that the motion seeks to promote employment as well as the beauty and serenity of Nigeria.
He stated that the framework will be put in place and that the President seeking to help the States in managing the parks will ensure they thrive.
On his part, Hon. Jimoh Olanrewaju expressed that there is a limit to the power of the Legislature on the motion, as it is the exclusive right of the President to create such parks.
While venting his view, Hon. Yusuf Gagdi who observed that the motion was in line with the constitutional powers of the President, stated that the aim of the Federal Government to aid the States in managing the Parks will ensure their success.
