Sacked members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Plateau State House of Assembly, as ruled by the Court of Appeal, have arrived at the Assembly Complex, demanding entry into Tuesday’s sitting despite their dismissal.
The Court of Appeal had earlier sacked the 16 PDP members, citing a lack of party structure in Plateau State to sponsor candidates in the last general elections. Despite the court’s decision, the lawmakers, led by Ishaku Maren, insisted on joining their colleagues during the resumed sitting.
The sacked lawmakers argue that the Supreme Court judgment validating the election of Governor Caleb Mutfwang also qualifies them to remain as members of the Assembly. They announced their intention to resume legislative duties on Tuesday, the day the House reconvened from its two-month recess.
However, only eight members of the House of Assembly participated in the sitting. After the session, the Speaker addressed the sacked lawmakers, urging them to maintain the status quo while exploring all legal measures.
To prevent a potential breakdown of law and order, security operatives cordoned off the Assembly Complex. The situation remains tense as the ousted legislators press for entry, highlighting the complex political and legal challenges facing the Plateau State House of Assembly.