Amid escalating security challenges in Benue and Zamfara states, the House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions has summoned the governors and lawmakers of both states to appear before it on Thursday, May 8, 2025.
The committee requests the presence of Governors Hyacinth Alia (Benue) and Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), along with members of their respective State Houses of Assembly, to account for their response to the deteriorating security situation. The summons is tied to concerns that both state governments have failed in their constitutional responsibilities, potentially warranting intervention by the National Assembly.
This action follows a formal petition submitted by a civil rights advocacy group, Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law, which urged the federal legislature to assume the duties of the affected state assemblies due to worsening insecurity.
Chooks Oko, Head of Media for the House Committee on Public Petitions, confirmed the development in a statement released on Friday. According to Oko, the summons, endorsed by Committee Chairman Hon. Mike Etaba, acknowledges that the concerned parties are already familiar with the background and issues at stake.
“Our role is to ensure the law is respected and maintained,” Etaba stated. “This hearing presents a chance for those summoned to present their positions clearly before Nigerians. We must not allow a descent into lawlessness.”
The situation in both states has raised national alarm, with increasing violence, loss of lives, and mass displacement of residents. Lawmakers are expected to use the May 8 hearing to assess whether conditions justify federal intervention under constitutional provisions.
