Oversight Performance of the 9th House of Representatives Committee on Narcotics Drugs

Abstract

This study evaluated the performance of the 9th House of Representatives Committee on Narcotic Drugs concerning the rising drug use in Nigeria. Specifically, the study evaluated the oversight activities of the House Committee on Narcotic Drugs and their effects on drug administration and governance; identified the factors militating against the performance of oversight by the House Committee on Narcotics Drugs, and suggested strategies that would mitigate the challenges affecting the oversight activities of the House Committee on Narcotics Drugs. The justification for this study is that it bridges the knowledge gap in legislative oversight governance by bringing to the fore the issue of oversight of agencies charged with the tasks of administering narcotics drugs and psychotropic substance governance in Nigeria. To conduct this study, a mixed research design combining qualitative and quantitative data was adopted, employing purposive sampling. Research instruments included sessional reports of the House Committee on Narcotic Drugs and interviews with committee members, government agencies, and civil society organisations. Twelve (12) Key Informants were interviewed. The study followed an objective-by-objective approach in evaluating the oversight activities of the Committee on Narcotic Drugs. Based on objective one, the study found that the 9th House Committee on Narcotic Drugs demonstrated active oversight, and conducted extensive tours, seminars, and workshops. The committee received an increased number of Bills and Motions, highlighting their significant role in shaping drug policy legislation. This increased arrests and seizures of dangerous substances. For objective two, the study found that limited funds constrain the committee's ability to conduct oversight visits and carry out its programmes effectively. The committee's jurisdiction primarily focuses on Narcotic and Psychotropic substances, limiting its oversight of other critical drug policy areas. It was also found that inadequate infrastructure, including office space and equipment, hinders the committee's efficiency and effectiveness. For objective one, the study recommended that there is a need for adequate funding to beef up oversight activities of the House Committee on Narcotics Drugs. For objective two, the study recommended that there is a need to expand the jurisdiction of the committee as well as expand and improve the office space and equipment used by the committee. Overall, the study concludes that the legislature holds a prominent position in governance as it is responsible for lawmaking, representation, and oversight.