The House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions has summoned the governors and House of Assembly leaders of Benue and Zamfara states to appear before it on Thursday, May 8, amid growing calls for federal intervention due to escalating crises in both states.
The summons follows a petition filed by a civil rights group, Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law, urging the National Assembly to take over the legislative functions of the two state assemblies.
The group cited persistent insecurity, political instability, and alleged failure of leadership by the governors as grounds for its request.
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In a statement released by the committee’s head of media, Chooks Oko, Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Mike Etaba, confirmed that official notices were sent to all concerned parties, who, he said, are already aware of the allegations.
“Our role is to ensure that the rule of law is maintained. The invited officials now have the chance to clarify the situation and present their side to the Nigerian public. We will not allow anarchy to take root in our democratic system,” Etaba said.
The official summons, dated April 30, 2025, is titled: “Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law (Petitioner): Urgent Need for the House of Representatives to Take Over the Functions of the Benue State House of Assembly and the Zamfara State House of Assembly.”
The Summons states: “Summons/Hearing Notice: Whereas the above named petition is now pending before this Committee and the particulars of the petition aforesaid are already withing your knowledge;
“And whereas, the petition has been assigned to be heard by the Committee for determination; You are hereby required to note Sections 88 and 89 (c) of our constitution (as amended), and appear in person before this Committee on Thursday 8th day of May 2025 at 2.00pm or so soon thereafter as the Committee shall direct. Venue: House of Representatives Room 429 (New Wing).
“You are to submit one (1) soft and ten (10) hard copies of your brief on the matter.
“And further take notice that if you do not attend the hearing as required, the case may be heard or determined in your absence”.
