….Opposition Group Accuses State Assembly of Political Witch-Hunt
TA political group, the Zamfara APC Supporters (ZAS), has strongly condemned the recent decision by the Zamfara State House of Assembly to declare the seat of the Minority Leader and member representing Talata Mafara South Constituency, Hon. Aliyu Ango Kagara, as vacant.
In a statement released by its spokesperson, Nura Sani Mafara, the group described the move as an “embarrassment emanating from ignorance, abuse of office, and a calculated attempt to sideline the opposition in the Assembly.”
The controversy erupted following a session on Tuesday, 28th January, during which the Assembly, led by Speaker Hon. Bilyaminu Ismail Moriki, declared Kagara’s seat vacant. The APC supporters claim the decision was politically motivated and aimed at silencing opposition voices in the House.
“The lawmakers, most of whom are from the PDP, have been using their positions to suppress dissenting voices, even among their own party members,” the statement read.
“We in the APC refuse to stay silent while our representatives are harassed.”
ZAS also criticised Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration, alleging that his government has played a role in the political maneuvering within the state legislature.
The group recalled that in January 2024, nine members of the House were suspended, allegedly without following constitutional provisions or standing rules.
According to ZAS, their salaries and allowances were withheld simply for raising security concerns affecting their constituents.
Hon. Kagara, a four-term legislator, was inaugurated into the 7th Assembly on 8th June 2023.
The group argues that his removal is unlawful since legislative sessions run from June to June, and the current session is only six months old.
“The Assembly has barely been functional due to extended recess periods, including a renovation break that delayed the 2025 budget presentation,” the statement noted.
“Despite this, they rushed to declare Kagara’s seat vacant, showing a clear disregard for due process.”
ZAS has urged the National Assembly to intervene, warning that the matter could escalate to legal action.
The group insists that the state legislature must be held accountable for its decisions, which it claims lack transparency and constitutional backing.
“We caution the House against actions that could lead to legal battles, demands for damages, and public apologies,” ZAS stated.
