Table of Contents
The Nasarawa State House of Assembly has suspended the Chairman of the Lafia Local Government Council, Mohammad Haliru-Arabo, for three months due to his alleged involvement in the impeachment crisis affecting the council's legislative body.
This decision was made public on Tuesday by Speaker Danladi Jatau after a significant motion was presented by Musa Ibrahim-Abubakar, the Chairman of the House Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, during a plenary session in Lafia.
Jatau stated that the suspension is crucial to facilitate an impartial and thorough investigation into the events surrounding the impeachment of the Speaker of the Lafia Legislative Council.
He emphasized that if the crisis is not addressed, it could disrupt not only the local government but also the state capital.
“This situation poses a threat to the peace and stability of Lafia Local Government, which is the center of power in the state,” Jatau remarked.
“Therefore, the Chairman is hereby suspended for three months pending the results of the House Committee’s investigation.”
The Speaker instructed the Deputy Chairman of Lafia LGA, Uba Arikiya, to take over leadership of the council immediately until the inquiry is completed.
He also directed the Clerk of the House to formally inform Governor Abdullahi Sule of the Assembly’s decision.
Lawmakers who participated in the discussion, including Dr. Hajarat Danyaro Ibrahim, Mohammed Garba Isimbabi, Suleiman Yakubu Azara, and Larry Ven-Bawa, all supported the suspension unanimously.
They contended that Haliru-Arabo’s participation in legislative affairs, especially in announcing the impeachment of the council's Speaker, was illegal and could heighten tensions.
Ibrahim-Abubakar, who proposed the motion, cautioned that the chairman’s actions could trigger a wider crisis if not promptly resolved.
“The Chairman does not have the authority to declare the suspension of a legislative Speaker. Such interference is perilous and has the potential to incite conflict within the council,” he stated.
The Assembly also decided that the current leadership structure of the Lafia Legislative Council will remain unchanged until the investigation concludes.
In a separate issue, the House conducted the first reading of a bill aimed at repealing and re-enacting the Nasarawa State Harmonization and Administration of Revenue Law.
This bill was introduced by Majority Leader Suleiman Yakubu Azara and seconded by Minority Leader Luka Iliya Zhekaba.
The Speaker has scheduled December 16, 2025, for the second reading of the bill.
The House adjourned after unanimously approving the first reading.
FAQ
Why was the Chairman of Lafia Local Government Council suspended?
The Chairman, Mohammad Haliru-Arabo, was suspended for three months due to his alleged involvement in the impeachment crisis affecting the council's legislative body.
What will happen during the investigation?
The investigation aims to provide a neutral and thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the impeachment of the Speaker of the Lafia Legislative Council.
Who will lead the Lafia Local Government Council during the suspension?
The Deputy Chairman of Lafia LGA, Uba Arikiya, has been directed to assume leadership of the council until the investigation is concluded.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
