KOGI, Nigeria — The Kogi State House of Assembly in Nigeria welcomed a significant shift in political dynamics on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, as it lifted the suspension of eight assembly members and two local government council chairmen.
The members had been embroiled in serious terrorism allegations that, until recently, clouded their political future.
The Assembly’s decision came after the Department of State Security Service, DSS, gave its clearance on the case, effectively exonerating the suspended members from the accusations.
This message was conveyed by the State Governor, Yahaya Bello, to the Assembly and publicly declared by the Speaker, Rt. Honourable Prince Mathew Kolawole.
The reinstated lawmakers include Daniya Rayin of Bassa constituency, Murktar Bajeh from Okehi, Kilani Olumo of Ijumu, and Moses Akande of Ogori-Magongo.
Also included are Mohammed Lawi Ahmed from Okene one, Atule Igbunu of Ibaji, Suleiman Attajachi Musa from Idah, and Aderonke Aro of Yagba West.
Local council chairmen cleared of the allegations include Moses Olorunleke from the Kabba-Bunu local government area and William Ikoojo of Ibaji.
“Following rigorous investigations by the Department of State Security Service, the suspended members have been cleared of all charges,” the Speaker Prince Mathew Kolawole read from the governor’s correspondence during the plenary. “As such, they are reinstated and free to carry out their respective duties.”
In an interesting turn of events, the Speaker also instructed the house clerk to summon two former commissioners and the former Auditor General for screening.
The move follows Governor Yahaya Bello’s recent reappointment of some commissioners and political aspirants who contested for the All Progressive Congress (APC) governorship primary election.
Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman emerged as the winner of that election.
The nominees for screening include Asiwaju Idris Asiru, Salami Momoh Ozigi, and Yakubu Okala.
These nominations were forwarded to the Assembly by Governor Bello, requesting that the house clear them after their participation in the state governorship primaries.
The reinstatement of these members marks a significant turn in Kogi State’s politics, demonstrating the rigorous process of accountability and justice within Nigeria’s political structures.
The future political landscape of Kogi State will undoubtedly be shaped by these shifts.
