In an unprecedented move aimed at addressing a looming crisis of democracy, sixteen legitimate but uninaugurated members of the Plateau State House of Assembly convened a world press conference to shed light on the dire situation unfolding in the state. The conference, organized by the aggrieved legislators, highlighted the blatant disregard for democratic principles and the rule of law within the political landscape of Plateau State.
Addressing a gathering of distinguished colleagues, members of the press, and concerned citizens, the legislators expressed their profound concerns over the deliberate refusal of the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly to inaugurate them into office. The refusal, they argue, not only undermines the democratic process but also violates the fundamental rights of the people they were elected to represent.
The legislators commenced the conference by extending warm congratulations to Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang on his recent victory at the Supreme Court, affirming his position as the duly elected Governor of Plateau State. However, amidst the celebration of this legal victory, they voiced their dismay over the ongoing turmoil within the State House of Assembly, which threatens to undermine the very foundations of democracy.
Drawing attention to the protracted legal battles that ensued following the 2023 elections, the legislators emphasized that the Court of Appeal had unequivocally ruled in their favor, validating their mandates as duly elected representatives of the people. Despite being issued Certificates of Return by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in December 2023, they lamented the Speaker’s persistent refusal to inaugurate them into office, depriving their constituents of effective representation.
The legislators underscored the constitutional imperative for the Speaker to inaugurate them, citing Section 94(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates the swearing-in of duly elected members of the State House of Assembly upon the presentation of their Certificates of Return. With the uninaugurated members constituting a significant majority within the Assembly, their exclusion from legislative proceedings raises serious concerns about the integrity of the democratic process in Plateau State.
Amidst allegations of partisan conspiracy and political maneuvering, the legislators decried the lack of intervention from key stakeholders, including the Executive Governor, security agencies, and national leadership. They accused the Speaker of flouting court orders and disregarding the rule of law, thereby perpetuating a culture of impunity and lawlessness within the state.
Highlighting the broader implications of the ongoing crisis, the legislators warned of the potential breakdown of law and order if urgent measures are not taken to address the grievances of the people. They called upon the President of Nigeria, state authorities, international organizations, and civil society groups to intervene and uphold the principles of democracy, justice, and accountability in Plateau State.
In a fervent appeal for solidarity and support, the legislators urged citizens, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and the international community to stand in defense of democracy and the rule of law. They pledged to exhaust all legal and legitimate means to assert their mandates and ensure the restoration of democratic governance in Plateau State.
As the conference drew to a close, the legislators reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the Plateau project and called upon all stakeholders to join hands in safeguarding the future of democracy in the state. With signatures appended to their statement, they issued a resounding call for action, signaling their readiness to confront the challenges ahead and uphold the sanctity of democratic principles in Plateau State.
