APC, PDP lawmakers exchange blows over appointments

Punch reports that the lawmakers exchanged blows during the House session.

Governor Tanko Al-Makura had earlier announced the appointment of 11 sole administrators to oversee the affairs of the councils pending an election.

Channels Television also reports that the two year tenure of the council chairmen expired on March 24, 2016.

Reports say all the furniture in the chambers were destroyed.

A lawmaker who opposed the Governor’s move, Mr. Makpa Malla said “The Section 7 of the Federal Republic of Nigeria – as amended – guarantees a democratic system of governance at the local government level. The provision of the constitution is explicit on how the local government structure should be run.

“That is why we are kicking against the appointment of the sole administrators. Sole administrators only existed during the military era and as respecters of the rule of law, we must ensure that the executive must also respect the rule of law.”

Meanwhile, the Deputy Speaker, Godiya Akwashiki said “The Governor had to inaugurate the 11 sole administrators because of the security situation in the state, adding that on account of this, it would be wrong to fault the governor’s decision.

“We cannot afford to leave the councils without heads. The tenure of the former local government chairmen expired on March 24, 2016.”

READ: Governor Al-Makura reportedly sacks worker over Facebook post

The lawmakers who opposed Governor Al-Makura’s move, also accused those who supported the appointments of receiving N50m bribe each, from the Governor.

Watch a video report of the incident below.

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