Militarization Of Plateau Assembly: Lalong’s Govt Have Grossly Abused Their Powers And Declared Themselves Unfit For Leadership- Rep Hon. Maren

• Condemns Siege On Plateau State House Of Assembly

The member representing Mangu/Bokkos federal constituency at the Nigerian House of Representatives, Hon. Engr. Solomon Bulus Maren has condemned in strong terms the undemocratic militarization of the Plateau State House of Assembly on Tuesday November 1, 2021, and subsequent dehumanization of 12 members, including a legally elected Speaker.

As an experienced lawmaker, Maren views this unwarranted siege on the lawmaking organ of Government by the executive which has uncharitably suspended the rule of law for what can best be described as a martial law, which is unacceptable in a democracy, is to say the least, a huge disservice to the electorates.

The State executive have grossly abused their powers and declared themselves unfit for leadership by using law enforcement agencies which are paid with taxes from citizens to protect them to humiliate them. For members of a Legislature who are elected to bear the feelings of their constituents — representing them in all decision making processes to be so dehumanized — teargassed, brutalized and as reported, detained by Government securities, the executive which is led in the State by a former lawmaker and lawyer who should be better informed in the law has shown high-level disrespect for both the Legislature and the citizens they represent.

This show of political rascality is indeed shameful, disgraceful and a huge threat to Nigeria’s nascent democracy and indeed the peace of the State. The world and in particular, citizens of Plateau State should hold the Governor for any breakdown of law and order consequent to this.

Governor Simon Lalong on his part, and of course all his cohorts including the seven members of the Assembly who carried out the political coup that brought in a so-called new Speaker without due process or securing the mandatory 2/3rd majority vote should toe the path of honor and allow the proper thing to be done. Their tenures soon elapse, and their reputation should be Paramount.

On our part, we will continue to, on behalf of our respected constituents continue to stand against impunity and injustice no matter who is involved. We therefore demand the immediate release of the detained lawmakers and the reopening of the Assembly Complex for legislative activities to continue in line with laid down rules.

Signed.

Isah Abdullahi

SSA media and publicity to Hon. Solomon Maren.