In a bid to address the uproar surrounding the inauguration of members of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Speaker Rt. Hon. Gabriel Dewan appeared on Channels Television’s Politics Today to provide clarity on why only nine out of the sixteen All Progressives Congress (APC) members were sworn in.
The controversy stems from the Court of Appeal’s dismissal of sixteen Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members, leading to the reinstatement of sixteen APC members to the House. However, tension arose when only nine members were inaugurated last week, leaving seven others excluded.
Speaking on the show, Speaker Dewan explained the sequence of events and procedural requirements leading up to the inauguration. He highlighted the lack of formal communication from relevant authorities, such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), regarding the court’s judgment and the need for proper documentation.
Dewan emphasized: “The right thing to be done was for INEC to write to me as the Speaker directing me…to recognise this person as your member…that was never done.” He further clarified that his decision was based on the information and documentation presented to him, which included certificates of return from nine members.
Asserting his commitment to due process, Dewan refuted accusations of contempt of court and political bias, stating, “I don’t know if the CTC copies of the other members are not ready…What was presented to me was what I recognized and I swore them in.”
The Speaker urged for understanding and adherence to established procedures, emphasizing that the remaining APC members would be inaugurated once they fulfilled the necessary requirements.
Dewan’s appearance on Politics Today aimed to dispel misconceptions and provide transparency regarding the controversial inauguration, ensuring that the integrity of the House of Assembly and due process are upheld.