Speaker, House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila has accepted the controversial petition by “Mutual Union of the Tiv in America” earlier rejected by his deputy Ahmed Idris Wase.

Barely two weeks ago, Mr Wase rejected the petition of the Tiv people from Benue State resident in the U.S.

The petition presented by Benue lawmaker, Mark Gbillah, accused the Nigerian government of nonchalance towards the perils facing those who have been displaced as a result of killer herdsmen activities.

While reacting to the petition, the Deputy Speaker argued that Nigerians who “sit in their comfort zones” abroad are not eligible to file petitions against the federal government on issues regarding a spate of violent crimes committed linked to herdsmen.

Mr Wase questioned how people living in America are aware of happenings in Nigeria, saying “Honourable Gbillah, did you say Tivs in America? What do they know about Nigeria? What is their business? They can’t sit in their comfort zones and know what is happening in Nigeria.”

The rejection stirred reactions from critics who berated Mr Wase for depriving Nigerians of their citizenship and rights.

However, Mr Gbajabiamila who presided over the plenary on Tuesday accepted the petition after it was re-presented by Mr Gbillah.

The Speaker noted that the House of Representatives was against discrimination against citizens, regardless of where they reside, Vanguard reported.

“I believe this is the same petition that has been causing a lot of misunderstanding,” noting that “the misunderstanding came from the issue of signature.

“Having cleared that misunderstanding, please, go ahead and lay your petition to be given proper attention.

“Thank Hon Mark Gbillah. Thank you for your patience”, Mr Gbajabiamila said.