The House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions has issued a summons to the Governors of Benue and Zamfara States, Hyacinth Alia and Dauda Lawal, along with their respective State Assemblies, to appear before it on Thursday, May 8.
The summons comes in response to a petition filed by the civil rights group, Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law, which expressed concern over the escalating insecurity in both states. The group urged the National Assembly to consider assuming legislative duties in the states, citing the alleged inability of the current leadership to maintain order and security.
A statement released on Friday by the Committee’s Head of Media, Chooks Oko, confirmed the development, stating that the petition prompted the committee to invite both the executive and legislative arms of the two states for questioning.
According to Oko, “The summons is a result of a petition requesting the House to take over the constitutional functions of the State Assemblies in light of the security challenges.”
Committee Chairman Mike Etaba, who personally signed the summons, noted that the parties involved were already familiar with the case and emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law.
“This is an opportunity for the invited parties to present their positions clearly. It is vital that Nigerians understand the realities on ground. There will be no tolerance for disorder in our democratic system,” the statement added.
The hearing is expected to provide clarity on the steps taken by both state governments to address the security crisis and determine whether further legislative action is warranted.
