Former Plateau Speaker, Abok removed for gross incompetence – Majority leader

The Majority Leader of the Plateau State House of Assembly Hon. Daniel Naanlong has disclosed that the removal of Rt. Hon. Abok Ayuba as Speaker of the State Assembly was because of alleged gross incompetence, dictatorial tendencies, and his willingness to be used by external forces to destabilise the House and the State at large.

Hon. Naanlong stated this on Thursday while briefing Journalists alongside Rt. Hon. Yakubu Sanda faction of the State Assembly at 14 Units of the Government House, Jos.

According to the Majority Leader, the aim of the press briefing was to put the record concerning the impasse straight in the public court.

He said, “Gentlemen of the press, it is imperative that we address you today and put the records straight in-view of the aftermath of the change of leadership in the Plateau State House of Assembly”.

Hon. Naanlong Daniel emphasized that, it was baseless and misleading to state that, only 8 members of the Plateau State House of Assembly were at the chambers during plenary when Rt. Hon. Abok was removed.

“We want to put it on record that, due process was followed in the impeachment of the former Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abok Ayuba, as provided in section 92, 2 (C) CFRN 1999 (As amended) that, 16 out of the 24 members sign a resolution for his impeachment. This was complied with on the 28th October 2021.

“The public and members of the press should note that, 17 members were present in the Chambers at the sitting on that day, which is more than the required number that forms a Quorum in any legislative business of a State House of Assembly.

“It is baseless and misleading to say that, only eight numbers sign for the impeachment of the former Speaker, as been spread around in the social and mainstream media and by some individuals.

He disclosed that the clerk of the House is in possession of the names of all members, who were in the House on that day.

“Unfortunately, some members of the other side, who were there and even addressed the press afterwards “have been involved in misinforming the public. We want you to beware”.

“As it stands, the house has met-up the Constitutional requirement in removing its Speaker and anyone who is not satisfied with the house decision may wish to approach court to seek redres than inciting the public and whipping sentiments. As far as we are concerned, the former Speaker did not come to the House as Speaker. He was first among equals given the privilege to lead. When he lost confidence of his colleagues, he had to go. This is standard Legislative practice.

The Lawmaker said as democrats and beneficiaries of the democratic process, they will stand against any internal or external forces that are bent on destroying or giving the legislative arm or the State bad image.

“We want to assure our constituents and the people of Plateau that we will continue to operate a people oriented legislature, and work closely with the other arms of Government in providing the needed dividends of democracy, as our doors are open for meaningful dialog and consultation for the interest of Plateau.

The Majority leader however appeal to the Inspector General of Police to unseal the house to enable them continue their legislative function, in-view of the numerous bills on ground which required legislative attention including the 2022 appropriation bill which was laid by the Governor.