Reps Invite Zamfara, Benue Gov. and Assembly Leaders.

Abuja, Nigeria —  The House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions has issued a formal invitation to the Governors of Zamfara and Benue States, along with their respective House of Assembly leadership, to appear before the committee on Thursday, May 8, 2025.

The summons follows a petition filed by a pro-democracy group, Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law, which urged the House of Representatives to assume legislative authority in both states due to what it described as grave constitutional concerns.

In a statement released by Hon. Mike Etaba, Chairman of the Public Petitions Committee, the lawmakers emphasized their resolve to uphold constitutional integrity and safeguard democratic institutions.

“Our responsibility is to ensure that the rule of law remains non-negotiable in every part of the country,” Hon. Etaba declared. “This engagement presents a vital opportunity for all involved parties to clarify their positions and allow Nigerians to understand the facts. There is no room for anarchy in our democratic system.”

The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to the legislative mission outlined in the 10th House of Representatives Agenda, stressing that all actions would align with constitutional mandates.

Zamfara State is currently grappling with deep political unrest within its legislative arm. A leadership crisis erupted after Speaker Bilyaminu Isma’il Moriki suspended ten legislators on grounds of alleged misconduct. The suspended lawmakers rejected the decision, formed a parallel faction, and appointed Bashar Aliyu Gummi as an alternative speaker.

Both groups now hold separate legislative sessions in Gusau, each claiming legitimacy. While the Moriki-led assembly dismisses any sitting held outside the main chamber, the rival Gummi faction has declared the suspensions null and void and taken steps such as dissolving House committees.

Similarly, Benue State has faced its share of legislative turbulence. In February 2025, the Benue Assembly suspended thirteen members who opposed the impeachment of Chief Judge Maurice Ikpambese. Although these lawmakers initially voted for his removal, they later recanted—sparking disciplinary actions for alleged misconduct.

This has drawn sharp criticism from national institutions. The National Judicial Council (NJC) stated that the Assembly’s actions breached constitutional processes concerning judicial officers. Meanwhile, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) denounced the suspensions as unlawful and an outright violation of the rule of law.

The House Committee’s intervention signals a renewed effort by the federal legislature to mediate constitutional infractions and preserve democratic order in the country’s subnational assemblies.

By Enoch Odesola | May 3, 2025