The Speaker of the Zamfara State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Bilyaminu Ismail Moriki, has addressed the recent defection of eight lawmakers from the All Progressives Congress (APC). According to Moriki, these lawmakers were not new to disciplinary actions, having been suspended from the House since February 2024. The suspension was a result of serious allegations, including gross misconduct, conspiracy, and destruction of public property.
The allegations against the lawmakers were severe, bordering on burglary, forcible entry, and destruction of public property. They were accused of breaking into the offices of the Clerk and the Sergeant-at-Arms, damaging Assembly property, and convening an unauthorized sitting. These actions led to a criminal complaint being filed against them in a court of competent jurisdiction. The Speaker emphasized that the suspension was not a consequence of their political decisions but rather a result of disciplinary matters within the Assembly.
Moriki further explained that the Zamfara State House of Assembly is stable and functional, despite the purported defection of the suspended members. He described their defection as an attempt to divert public attention from the disciplinary issues surrounding their suspension. The Speaker assured that the House continues to conduct its proceedings in accordance with the Constitution and its Standing Orders, with 16 active members currently participating in legislative business.
The suspension of the eight lawmakers was extended for another legislative session on May 13, 2026, due to unresolved disciplinary issues and violations of House rules. Moriki noted that two other lawmakers who had earlier been suspended were reinstated after tendering apologies to the House. This, according to him, demonstrates that the disciplinary measures were neither politically motivated nor targeted at any political affiliation.
Reacting to suggestions that the Assembly lacked the capacity to conduct legislative business, Moriki dismissed the claims, stressing that the House is fully engaged in its constitutional responsibilities. He mentioned that the House held its plenary recently and is scheduled to reconvene, emphasizing that there is no basis for portraying the Zamfara State House of Assembly as being in disarray.
The Speaker urged the public to distinguish between the political choices of the suspended lawmakers and the longstanding disciplinary proceedings against them. He emphasized that the suspension of the lawmakers predates their purported defection and arose from disciplinary matters within the Assembly. Moriki also highlighted that the House has a significant number of active members, ensuring its functionality.
In conclusion, Moriki reiterated that the Zamfara State House of Assembly is stable and functional, with the suspended lawmakers' defection being an attempt to create an erroneous impression of instability. The Speaker's statements aim to clarify the situation, emphasizing the Assembly's commitment to its constitutional responsibilities and the rule of law.
Key points
- The eight lawmakers were suspended on February 26, 2024, over allegations of gross misconduct and other serious infractions.
- The suspension was extended for another legislative session on May 13, 2026, due to unresolved disciplinary issues.
- The Speaker emphasized that the disciplinary measures were neither politically motivated nor targeted at any political affiliation.
