Niger Assembly Suspends Plenary Over Rift With Executive

The Niger State House of Assembly has suspended plenary indefinitely over what lawmakers described as unresolved issues with the executive arm of the state government.

Vanguard and Punch reported that the decision followed a motion by Mohammed Abubakar-Kabir, the member representing Chanchaga Constituency. He asked the House to suspend proceedings until the issues with the executive are addressed.

The lawmaker did not state the details of the dispute during the sitting. He said lawmakers had a duty to defend the independence of the legislature and should not allow pending issues with the executive to be ignored.

The motion was seconded by Abdulrahman Gambo, who represents Borgu Constituency.

Punch reported that Jibrin Ndagi-Baba, representing Lavun Constituency, moved a counter-motion and argued that the day’s business should continue. The debate almost became rowdy before Speaker Abdulmalik Sarkindaji appealed for calm.

After the debate, a majority of members supported the suspension. The House then adjourned plenary indefinitely.

Neither report gave a formal response from the Niger State executive arm at the time of publication.

Sources: Vanguard, Punch