A crisis has erupted in the Zamfara State House of Assembly as ten suspended lawmakers held a parallel plenary session in Gusau, declaring their suspension "illegal, misleading, and baseless". The lawmakers, led by Hon. Bashar Aliyu Gummi, who was reaffirmed as Speaker, criticized the recent dismissal of over 3,000 civil servants, claiming due process was not followed.
Background of the Suspension
The lawmakers were suspended by Speaker Bilyaminu Ismail Moriki, but they claim their suspension was unjustified and aimed at silencing them from exposing the worsening security challenges in the state. They have been vocal about the state's insecurity issues, including banditry, kidnapping, and violent crimes ¹ ².
Key Demands from the Parallel Plenary
- *Address Insecurity*: The lawmakers gave a one-month ultimatum to Governor Dauda Lawal to address the security situation in the state.
- *Re-present 2025 Appropriation Bill*: They also gave a 48-hour ultimatum to the governor to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill, declaring the one presented to the Moriki-led Assembly as null and void.
- *Reinstate Sacked Civil Servants*: The lawmakers called on the state government to reverse the sackings, reinstate the affected workers, and pay all outstanding salaries and entitlements.
Implications of the Parallel Plenary
The parallel plenary session has further deepened the crisis in the Zamfara State House of Assembly. The lawmakers' demands highlight the need for the state government to address the pressing issues of insecurity and governance.
*What's Next?*
The situation in Zamfara State House of Assembly remains tense, and it remains to be seen how the state government will respond to the lawmakers' demands. The crisis highlights the need for dialogue and cooperation to address the state's challenges ¹.
