Kogi Assembly lifts suspension on 8 lawmakers

The Kogi State House of Assembly has lifted the suspension of eight of the nine lawmakers suspected of being involved in terrorism and electoral violence during the March 18 House of Assembly election.

The eight lawmakers are Daniyan Ranyi (Bassa), Muktar Baje (Okehi), Olusola Kilani Olumo (Ijumu), Akande Moses (Ogori/ Magongo) and Lawi Muhammed Ahmed (Okene 1).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the lawmakers were recalled during Wednesday’s plenary following a letter written to the House by Gov Yahaya Bello, requesting their clearance against the backdrop of a report from the Department of State Security Service.

The House, through a voice vote conducted by the Speaker, Mr Matthew Kolawole, unanimously cleared the eight lawmakers and two council chairmen who were also suspected of committing the crimes.

They were alleged to have breached the conduct of the March 18 House of Assembly elections in the state and were branded terrorists by the governor.

But the report of an Ad hoc Committee Chaired by the Deputy Speaker, Alfa Momoh-Rabiu, cleared the eight lawmakers except for Bello Hassan Abdullah of the Ajaokuta constituency.

However, no reason was given for the non-clearance of Abdullah.

The two council chairmen cleared of the allegations are Moses Tolorunleke of Kabba/ Bunu and William Ekuwojo of Ibaji LGAs.

Meanwhile, the House has adjourned sitting until Thursday.

(NAN)