Nasarawa Assembly Suspends Lafia Council Chairman Over Impeachment Role

The Nasarawa State House of Assembly on Tuesday suspended the Chairman of Lafia Local Government Council, Hon. Mohammad Haliru Arabo, for three months.

The suspension is connected to his alleged involvement in the impeachment process of the council's legislative speaker. The move aims to facilitate an impartial investigation and maintain stability in the state's capital territory.

Following a motion of public importance moved by Hon. Musa Ibrahim Abubakar, Chairman of the House Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Speaker Rt. Hon. Danladi Jatau, PhD, announced the resolution during plenary in Lafia.

Speaker Jatau stated the measure was necessary to "allow for an impartial investigation, restore peace, and safeguard the stability of Lafia," the state's seat of power. He directed the Deputy Chairman of Lafia Local Government, Hon. Uba Arikiya, to assume leadership of the council immediately, pending the committee's investigation.

“This matter affects the peace and stability of Lafia Local Government Area,” Speaker Jatau said. “Accordingly, the Chairman is hereby suspended for three months pending the outcome of our committee’s investigation. The status of the Lafia Legislative Arm remains unchanged until the committee concludes its work.”

Citing constitutional provisions, the Speaker questioned the conduct of the suspended chairman, accusing him of encroaching into legislative affairs. He instructed the Clerk of the House to transmit the resolution to Governor Abdullahi Sule.

In his motion, Hon. Abubakar expressed concern over reports that the Lafia LG Speaker had been suspended by council lawmakers, with the announcement allegedly made by the LG Chairman—an action he warned could trigger unrest.

Lawmakers across party lines, including Dr. Hajarat Danyaro Ibrahim and Hon. Mohammed Garba Isimbabi, supported the suspension, arguing it would avert an escalation and serve as a deterrent.

In a separate development, the Assembly passed the Nasarawa State Harmonization and Administration of All Revenues Bill through its first reading. The bill, aimed at strengthening revenue administration, was presented by Majority Leader Hon. Suleiman Yakubu Azara. Its second reading is scheduled for December 16, 2025.