Nigeria’s House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions has summoned the Governors of Zamfara and Benue States, Dauda Lawal and Hyacinth Alia, along with the leadership of their respective State Houses of Assembly, to appear before it on Thursday, May 8.
The summons follows a petition filed by a civil rights group, Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law, which called on the House to assume legislative duties in both states due to ongoing, unresolved disputes among members of their legislatures.
According to the committee, the appearance is necessary to allow the governors and assembly leaders to present their cases and explain why the federal legislature should not intervene by taking over the functions of their State Assemblies.
Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Mike Etaba, who personally signed the summons, emphasized that the invited parties are already familiar with the facts of the matter. He stated that the House’s primary concern is the preservation of the rule of law and the prevention of political instability.
“This session will offer all concerned the opportunity to clarify their positions, and ensure that the Nigerian public and lawmakers fully understand the circumstances. Anarchy has no place in our democratic framework,” Etaba said.
This development signals growing federal concern over legislative dysfunction at the state level, particularly in Zamfara and Benue, where infighting has reportedly stalled critical governance processes.
