Eight lawmakers from the Zamfara State House of Assembly, including Bashir Aliyu (PDP-Gummi 1), Amiru Keta (PDP-Tsafe West), Nasiru Abdullahi (PDP-Maru South), Bashir Masama (PDP-Bukkuyum North), Faruku Dosara (APC-Maradun 1), Ibrahim Tukur (APC-Bakura Constituency), Shamsudeen Hassan (APC Talata-Mafara North), and Bashiru Sarkin-Zango (PDP-Bungudu West), have fled the state following their suspension. They claim that they have faced threats to their lives by political thugs after being suspended for allegedly holding an illegal plenary session.
The suspended lawmakers assert that their suspension is unjust and politically motivated, as they have been vocal about the escalating insecurity in Zamfara State. They accuse security agents of harassing them without valid reasons and claim that they were forced to flee to Kaduna State to ensure their safety.
During a press conference held in Zaria, Kaduna State, Bashir Aliyu, speaking on behalf of the suspended lawmakers, expressed their commitment to continue advocating for security improvements in Zamfara State despite facing threats and intimidation. They emphasize their efforts to effect changes in the leadership of the Assembly to address the prolonged absence of the Speaker and his Deputy from the state.
The lawmakers recount an incident where they were attacked by thugs linked to a politician in Zamfara State during the wedding of the Deputy Governor’s daughter on February 24. They allege that instead of addressing their concerns, they have faced harassment and threats from forces within the state.
Furthermore, the suspended lawmakers reveal that they received a letter dated March 7, directing them to return the official vehicles in their possession to the Clerk of the State Assembly within seven days. They view these actions as attempts to silence their advocacy and call for intervention from key stakeholders to address the situation and safeguard democracy in Zamfara State.
