Six lawmakers of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Zamfara State House of Assembly have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing the legislature of violating constitutional principles and undermining democratic governance.
According to a report by Tribune, the lawmakers made their decision public on Wednesday evening in Gusau after what they described as extensive deliberations on the state of affairs in the Assembly. They alleged that poor leadership within the legislative arm had weakened its independence and prevented it from fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities.
According to them, the House has been turned into an appendage of the executive, functioning largely as a rubber stamp for Governor Dauda Lawal.
The lawmakers stated that they had been subjected to what they termed illegal suspension for nearly two years, a situation they said effectively denied their constituents representation. They explained that this led to the formation of a parallel House of Assembly, through which they have continued to oppose what they described as unlawful actions by both the government-recognised faction of the legislature and the executive arm.
Each of the lawmakers submitted individual defection letters to the factional Speaker, Hon. Bashar Aliyu Gummi. They are Hon. Bashar Aliyu Gummi (Gummi I); Hon. Nasiru Abdullahi Maru (Maru North); Barr. Bashir Abubakar Masama (Bukkuyum North); Hon. Bashir Bello (Bungudu West); Hon. Amiru Ahmad Keta (Tsafe West); and Hon. Muktar Nasir Kaura (Kaura North).
They further alleged that, during their suspension, the remaining faction of the House, working with the governor, passed laws and took legislative decisions without the constitutionally required quorum, rendering such actions invalid.
The lawmakers called on the National Assembly to probe the situation in Zamfara State and take steps to restore order and ensure adherence to the rule of law within the legislature.
Explaining their defection from the PDP to the APC, the lawmakers said their decision was guided by the principles of justice, fairness, harmony and inclusiveness. They noted that joining the APC would provide an opportunity to return fully to legislative duties and contribute to the development of the state as well as the welfare of their constituents.
Speaking on the development, the factional Speaker, Hon. Bashar Aliyu Gummi, said:“Following the receipt of defection letters from the six (6) honourable members, including myself, I wish to formally congratulate all of us for joining the Progressives in the country, the All Progressives Congress (APC). May this decision mark the beginning of success and development for our dear state and Nigeria at large.”
He added:“I consider this bold decision a wise one that will promote political stability and steer our dear nation towards greater prosperity.”
The lawmakers also stated:“However, our collective decision to leave our former party, the PDP, and join the APC marks a new political era in Zamfara State, where members of the ruling party defect to the opposition, thereby changing the narrative.”
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