A light-hearted moment sparked tension during the vetting of Deputy Interior Minister Designate, Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Monday, February 24.

During the session, Second Deputy Minority Whip, Jerry Ahmed Shaib, congratulated the nominee, noting his marital status before asking, “I see that you are a married man but I am not sure your wife is here to support you. Do you have any reasons why?”

However, it was his next question that raised eyebrows. Shaib asked, “Hon. nominee, are you stingy?” This prompted a quick response from Terlabi, who replied, “What do you understand by being stingy?”

The Chairman of the Committee swiftly intervened, declaring the question unparliamentary. “Honourable, you are out of order. Can you please withdraw that word? It’s unparliamentary,” the chairman instructed.

Acknowledging the rebuke, Shaib responded, “Very well, most guided, Mr. Chair,” and withdrew the question.

Despite the brief exchange, Hon. Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi proceeded with the vetting, addressing key issues related to his potential role as Deputy Interior Minister.