Niger assembly suspends plenary indefinitely over rift with executive

The Niger House of Assembly on Tuesday suspended its sittings indefinitely, citing “unresolved issues” with the executive arm of the state.

The suspension followed a motion by Mohammed Abubakar-Kabir, a member representing Chanchaga Constituency and popularly known as Ustaz, asking the house to step down proceedings until all “unresolved issues” with the executive “are addressed”.

Though he did not reveal the alleged unresolved issues, Ustaz told the house that posterity would judge members if it continued to allow pending issues with the executive to be swept under the carpet.

He added that the current lawmakers must take action to safeguard the independence of the legislative arm.

The motion was seconded by Abdulrahman Gambo, a member representing Borgu Constituency.

Subsequently, Jibrin Ndagi-Baba, a member representing Lavun Constituency, moved a countermotion, stating that there was no need to stand down the day’s business over issues with the executive arm.

The debates between the proponents and opponents of the motion nearly degenerated into a rowdy session, with the majority of members insisting that the house suspend the sitting.

Consequently, the Speaker, Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, stepped in and pleaded for calm and respect for each other’s opinion.

After a heated argument, the speaker advised that the motion be put to a vote, and those in support of plenary suspension won.

The house then suspended plenary and retired into an executive session to discuss the alleged “unresolved issues”. (NAN)

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