The Sokoto assembly on Thursday adjourned the house plenary indefinitely.

At its plenary sitting, the assembly presided over by Abubakar Magaji, the deputy speaker, adjourned in a rowdy session.

This development followed the rejection by lawmakers for Mr Magaji to present a message from Governor Aminu Tambuwal for their consideration.

Bello Ambarura (APC-Illela) argued that reading the letter violated the parliament’s tradition.

“Mr Speaker, it is a tradition in this assembly that members would be briefed on any message before it is presented at the chamber,” explained Mr Ambarura. “Therefore, we cannot allow the governor’s message to be presented since we are not aware of it before entering the chamber.”

However, the argument was re-echoed by other legislators on the platform of the APC.

The deputy speaker, after that, adjourned parliament sitting indefinitely.

Briefing journalists after the session on behalf of the protesting lawmakers, Bello Idris (APC-Gwadabawa North), said the argument became necessary as it violated due process.

“We have been hearing a rumour that the governor renamed some institutions in the state without any proper notification. As we are aware, there are laws that established those institutions and renaming them must follow due process,” stated Mr Idris.

He added, “Yes, renaming those institutions with the names of prominent personalities is a good thing, but doing so should be properly documented.”

Malami Basakkwace (PDP-Sokoto South II) said the lawmakers’ action was unexpected.

“This action is a disgrace to the founding fathers of the Sokoto Caliphate and the state in general,” he said.

The State Executive Council had approved renaming some state institutions with the names of some prominent personalities. 

(NAN)