The House of Representatives yesterday called for a political solution to the ongoing trial of Senate President Bukola Saraki, by the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), for alleged false declaration of assets. It has consequently mandated its Speaker, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, to meet President Muhammadu Buhari with a view to resolving all outstanding issues in order to protect the integrity of the legislature.
The House also passed a vote of confidence on the leadership of both chambers of the National Assembly after adopting an independence anniversary motion sponsored by Hon. Raphael Nnanna Igbokwe (PDP, Imo).
In adopting the motion, the House, upon amendment by the Minority Leader, Hon. Leo Ogor (PDP, Delta), resolved that in the spirit of Nigeria’s 55th independence anniversary and in order to protect the institution of the parliament, Dogara should intervene in the challenges faced by Saraki, who is Chairman of the National Assembly. Igbokwe, in his motion, said there were good reasons to celebrate the 55th anniversary of the country in spite of the challenges facing Nigeria.
But in his amendment to Igbokwe’s prayers, the minority leader said: “Mr. Speaker should find out what Is happening to the President of the Senate and get back to us on how we can protect the Chairman of the National Assembly.”
He said an injury to one person was an injury to all, adding that lawmakers in the legislature must come together to protect the legislature, as it is the cradle of democracy. In his contribution to the motion, Hon. Mohammed Wudil (APC, Kano) said that democracy had further united the country amidst its differences, adding that there is the need for the country to celebrate its 55th independence anniversary.
