The Benue State House of Assembly has unanimously resolved to advise Speaker Hyacinth Dajoh to ignore the summons issued by the National Assembly Public Petitions Committee, asserting that such a summons violates the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999) as amended.
A statement from Terver Zamber, Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, indicated that the Benue State Assembly is preparing to initiate legal action against the National Assembly.
The Assembly also called for an investigation by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Inspector General of Police to identify the individuals who signed the petition prompting the summons.
The lawmakers urged the National Assembly Caucus from Benue State to engage with the State Assembly to clarify why the State is being depicted unfavourably at the National Assembly.
In response to the petition from the National Assembly summoning the Speaker and the Assembly’s leadership to appear this Thursday, Majority Leader Saater Tiseer remarked that the notice reflects a lack of understanding.
He stated, “By the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Benue State House of Assembly is not answerable to the National Assembly,” emphasising that Section 101 grants the House the authority to legislate on its own affairs without external interference.
Bemdoo Ipusu, representing Katsina-Ala West State Constituency, supported the Assembly’s decision to pursue legal action against the National Assembly.
He highlighted discrepancies in the petition, noting that it incorrectly listed member Peter Uche, who is not suspended, as part of the group referenced, indicating a lack of awareness regarding the Assembly’s proceedings.
Ipusu questioned why the National Assembly would attempt to usurp the functions of a vibrant Assembly that effectively performs its duties, reiterating that the three branches of government in the State are not in conflict.
Members, including Micheal Audu and Peter Uche, expressed their strong disapproval of the National Assembly’s decision and advised the Speaker and leadership against compliance. Uche, who continues to fulfil his responsibilities as an elected representative, remarked on the erroneous inclusion of his name in the list of suspended members, stating, “This act clearly shows that the National Assembly was not properly informed before taking its decision.”
