Gusau, Zamfara State — The Zamfara State House of Assembly has declared the seat of Aliyu Ango Kagara, the representative of Talata Mafara South Constituency, vacant due to prolonged absenteeism.
In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Assembly, Bello Madaro Kurya, the decision was reached during a plenary session following a motion moved by the Majority Leader, Bello Tsafe, and seconded by Deputy Speaker Adamu Gummi.
Presenting the motion, Tsafe highlighted that Kagara had attended only 21 out of 180 legislative sitting days, a clear violation of both the Nigerian Constitution and the Assembly’s standing rules, which mandate regular participation in legislative activities.
Several lawmakers, including Kabiru Dangulbi, Rilwanu Anka, Ibrahim Garba, and Adamu Gummi, expressed unanimous support for the motion. They emphasized the necessity of upholding constitutional provisions and Assembly rules to maintain legislative integrity.
However, Alhaji Halliru Kuturu, representing Zurmi East Constituency, appealed for alternative disciplinary measures rather than declaring the seat vacant.
After extensive deliberation, Speaker of the House, Alhaji Bilyaminu Moriki, announced the unanimous decision, citing Sections 101 and 109 (2) of the Nigerian Constitution as the legal basis for the action. He explained that Kagara’s persistent absence from legislative duties justified the decision.
The Speaker also noted that multiple committees had been set up to engage Kagara and address his absenteeism, but all efforts to reach an amicable resolution proved unsuccessful.
Kagara, who served as the Minority Leader and is a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), reacted by describing the Assembly’s decision as unconstitutional and illegal.
He revealed plans to consult with other lawmakers who have faced suspension and promised to release a joint statement on their collective position soon.
By Enoch Odesola| January 28, 2025
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