Coalition Calls for State of Emergency in Zamfara State
Background
A coalition of democracy and development advocates has called on President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Zamfara State, citing the suspension of 10 House of Assembly members as a key reason.
Reasons for the Call
The coalition’s convener, Ibrahim Yakubu, spoke at a press briefing in Abuja, claiming that Governor Dauda Lawal’s actions have plunged the state into economic sabotage, anarchy, and instability. Yakubu condemned the governor’s alleged anti-democratic actions and urged the President to invoke the law for a minimum period of six months.
Context
The suspended lawmakers, comprising four members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and six from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), were suspended by the Assembly on February 27 for allegedly holding an illegal plenary. The coalition maintained that suspending the lawmakers for simply expressing concerns about the state’s security situation has crippled the legislative chamber and denied the people of effective representation.
Condemnation of Governor’s Action
The coalition described the situation as a "clear abuse of power and an attack on democracy." They claimed that the governor’s actions have crippled the legislative chamber and denied the people of effective representation, leading to a state of emergency.
Call to Action
The coalition emphasized that it is time for President Bola Tinubu to take action before it is too late. They urged the President to declare a state of emergency in Zamfara State for a minimum period of six months to:
- Restore order
- Dismantle the networks of political and economic terrorists
- Pave the way for a return to democratic governance
Conclusion
The crisis in Zamfara State has reached a critical point, and it is essential for the President to take immediate action to address the situation. Declaring a state of emergency is a necessary step towards restoring order and ensuring the stability of the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is the coalition calling for a state of emergency in Zamfara State?
A: The coalition is calling for a state of emergency due to the suspension of 10 House of Assembly members, which has crippled the legislative chamber and denied the people of effective representation.
Q: What is the duration of the emergency period being proposed?
A: The coalition is proposing a minimum period of six months to restore order, dismantle the networks of political and economic terrorists, and pave the way for a return to democratic governance.
Q: Who is behind the suspension of the 10 House of Assembly members?
A: The suspension was carried out by the Zamfara State House of Assembly, with the governor’s alleged support.
