PDP urges Benue Assembly to recall suspended lawmakers

By Ejembi Ogwuche

The Benue State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP has called on the Speaker of the State House of Assembly to urgently lift the suspension slammed on 13 Assembly members who voted against the purported removal of the Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambwese .

The party said the suspended members demonstrated a patriotic resolve against the legislative misconduct and rascality exhibited by the Assembly in February .

A statement on Tuesday by the publicity secretary of the party, Tim Nyor described the suspension as unwarranted and unjust which has deprived nearly two million people of Benue State of their legitimate representation in the legislative house.

“It also constitutes a blatant affront to the democratic principles that underpin our governance and our collective commitment to democracy.

“Such authoritarian actions must be unequivocally condemned by all patriots who cherish democracy as the foundation of good governance.

‘The Speaker and the Governor should recognize that Nigeria is not under a military regime; democracy thrives when diverse opinions and dissenting voices are respected and allowed to flourish.”

He said it is deeply disheartening and shameful that all relevant judicial bodies and institutions have universally condemned the Assembly’s actions which were evidently orchestrated by the Executive arm of government.

” Yet, the 13 courageous lawmakers, who dared to stand for truth and integrity, continue to suffer the repercussions of their principled stand against bad governance, dictatorship and suppression.

“PDP demands the immediate reinstatement of the suspended members to restore democracy, ensure proper representation, and uphold justice for the people of Benue State.”