The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts toward the rescue citation of Moribund steel companies across the country.
The resolution was passed sequel to the adoption of a motion on the need to curb the proliferation of sub-standard steel production in Nigeria, sponsored by Hon. Yinka Aluko.
In his lead debate, Hon. Aluko argued that the “increasing rate of building collapse claiming the lives of Nigerians, is not unconnected to the circulation of substandard steel products.
“The House is aware that the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has the mandate to ensure standard production across sectors.
“The House is also aware that the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) is mandated by law to promote and protect the interests of consumers over all products and services.
“The House is worried about the high rate of substandard steel products in the markets is alarming.
“The House is disturbed that the production and distribution of sub-standard steel products expose the lives of Nigerian consumers to the threat,” Hon. Aluko noted.
On his part, Majority Leader, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere also tasked the Federal Government through the Ministry of Mines and Steel to ensure the functionality of moribund steel complexes that is then expected to ensure the proper/standard quality of locally produced steel.
In his contribution, Hon. James Barka underscored the need for Standard Organisation of Nigeria to ensure non-compromise of its mandate and not to say ‘stop’ as that is an indictment on the Standard Organization of Nigeria without due investigation into the fact.
Also speaking, Hon. Chris Nkwonta stressed the need to incorporate Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) among the parties of inspectors.
The lawmakers also urge SON to stop the compromise and commence massive enforcement of its mandate to prosecute anyone dealing in substandard steel products to face the law as enshrined in section (4) subsection (l) of the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) Act,2015.
The House also urged Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to live up to its core mandate as stipulated in the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act of 2018 (FCCPA) by eliminating hazardous and substandard products from the market.
To this end, the House mandated the joint Committees on Industry, Customs and Excise as well as Steel Development to ensure compliance.
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