The House of Representatives has been urged to address the ongoing issue regarding the swearing-in of certain newly elected members of the Plateau State House of Assembly.
This call came after a motion of urgent public importance was adopted, brought forth by Ahmed Wase, the member representing Wase Federal Constituency of Plateau State, during Tuesday’s plenary session.
Wase highlighted that in 2023, the Court of Appeal made decisions nullifying the Certificates of Return of 16 sitting members of the Plateau State House of Assembly, ordering the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to issue new Certificates of Return to the newly elected members. By Section 72 (1) of the Electoral Act, 2022, INEC complied with this order and issued the necessary certificates.
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However, Wase pointed out that the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly is demanding letters of resignation accompanied by court affidavits from the remaining members-elect as a precondition for their swearing-in.
He emphasized that this requirement undermines democratic principles, particularly as Nigeria marks 25 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.
“The current situation, where some new members have been sworn in while others have not, contradicts the principles of fairness and justice that our electoral laws are designed to uphold,” Wase stated.
He further noted that failing to address these delays or biases in swearing-in denies the representation of other constituencies in Plateau State, threatening the state’s commitment to justice, fairness, and democratic principles, and posing a potential security risk.
In response, the House has pledged to investigate the circumstances surrounding this issue to ensure it is resolved with equity, fairness, and justice.
