Political Turmoil in Plateau as Dismissed PDP Lawmakers Declare Readiness to Resume Legislative Duties

Plateau Legislative Drama: Defiant PDP Lawmakers Challenge Court of Appeal Dismissal

As the Plateau State House of Assembly reconvenes for plenary today, a political storm looms as 16 lawmakers elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) boldly declare their intention to resume legislative duties, despite being dismissed by the Court of Appeal in November.

APC Counters: Resumption Plan an “Invitation to Anarchy”

The All Progressives Congress (APC) vehemently opposes the PDP lawmakers’ decision to resume, branding it an “invitation to anarchy and a threat to democracy.”

The APC insists that the dismissed legislators remain sacked and characterizes their intended return as a challenge to the rule of law.

PDP Lawmakers Invoke Supreme Court Ruling

In a press conference held in Jos on Monday, the 16 PDP lawmakers, led by former Majority Leader Yobo Ishaku, argue that the Supreme Court’s ruling, upholding Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s election on the same grounds, validates the PDP’s ability to nominate them.

They assert that the Court of Appeal’s decision to dismiss them has become null and void.

Defiance Against Court of Appeal Decision

Ishaku emphasizes that while on recess, the Court of Appeal ruled against them, citing the PDP’s lack of structure for their nomination.

However, he points to the Supreme Court’s subsequent verdict, labeling the Court of Appeal’s case as fraudulent and beyond its jurisdiction.

The lawmakers declare their dismissal as a “nullity” and express readiness to resume their legislative duties.

Call for Sanctions and Public Support

The PDP lawmakers call on President Bola Tinubu and the heads of the Nigerian judiciary to sanction the President of the Court of Appeal, questioning the validity of the dismissal under her watch.

They emphasize their democratic legitimacy, insisting that their constituents are eager to support them in their return to legislative activities.

APC’s Firm Opposition: An “Assault on Democracy”

Responding swiftly, the Plateau APC releases a statement describing the intended resumption of the PDP lawmakers as an “assault on democracy” and an “insurrection against the state.”

The APC asserts that the PDP lawmakers remain sacked under the law and warns against any attempt to disrupt the peace and order in the state.

Concerns over Potential Unrest

The APC raises concerns about the planned invasion of the House by the dismissed PDP members, noting that threats and warnings have been issued, urging APC members to stay away from the House of Assembly.

The APC calls attention to the need for peace and adherence to the Supreme Court’s judgment for the sake of democracy and the state’s harmonious existence.

In a rapidly unfolding political saga, Plateau State faces a challenging legislative session as opposing forces clash over the legitimacy of the dismissed PDP lawmakers’ attempt to resume their roles in the House of Assembly.

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