Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ben Kalu, issued a stern warning on Tuesday, expressing the possibility of suspending Solomon Bob, a member from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) representing Rivers state, following a heated altercation during a plenary session.
The dispute unfolded during a debate on a motion concerning Nigeria’s Independence Day celebration, where Kalu, who presided over the session, was criticized by Bob for allegedly restricting certain members from contributing to the discussion. Kalu defended the decision, stating that allowing everyone to speak was not feasible, leading to a clash of opinions.
Bob, a ranking member, raised a point of order, expressing his disappointment with the deputy speaker’s actions, insisting that all members should have the opportunity to speak. Despite Bob’s objections, Kalu overruled him, prompting the Rivers lawmaker to protest the decision, emphasizing the importance of allowing everyone to voice their opinions on the matter.
In the aftermath of the incident, Inuwa Garba, another PDP member representing Garba, moved a motion on privilege, demanding an apology from Bob for allegedly disrespecting the presiding officer and the entire House. Garba proposed a three-day ultimatum for Bob to apologize, or face a three-month suspension from House activities.
While Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda attempted to de-escalate the situation by arguing that Bob’s comments did not warrant suspension, the deputy speaker stood firm, insisting on an apology or suspension. The deputy speaker declared that Bob must apologize before the end of the plenary session.
Approximately one hour later, Solomon Bob returned to the chamber and offered his apology, which was accepted by Deputy Speaker Ben Kalu, bringing an end to the tense situation.
