Suspension of Lafia LG Chairman Sparks Division Within APC

LAFIA – The suspension of Lafia Local Government Chairman Mohammad Haliru-Arabo by the Nasarawa State House of Assembly has exposed divisions within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the area.

Haliru-Arabo was suspended for three months following allegations of involvement in the crisis affecting the council’s legislative arm. Speaker Danladi Jatau announced the suspension and directed Deputy Chairman Uba Arikya to oversee affairs pending an investigation.

A group identifying as Concerned APC Stakeholders in Lafia LGA has backed the Assembly's decision. Their spokesperson, Muhammad Habibu, stated at a press conference on Friday that the House acted within its constitutional authority.

“Section 128 of the 1999 Constitution empowers the Assembly to investigate matters concerning public officials. The chairman was asked to step aside to allow for a thorough investigation, and we support this move,” Habibu said.

The group also commended Governor Abdullahi Sule and the Assembly for their handling of state affairs.

However, the suspension has drawn sharp criticism from within the party. APC chieftain Abubakar Usman-Sandaji described the action as “deeply flawed, politically motivated, and a danger to democratic governance.” He accused the Assembly of acting hastily without presenting credible evidence.

The political dispute has escalated beyond the government complex. Police have taken control of the Lafia Local Government secretariat, and several protesters demonstrating against the suspension have been arrested.

The situation remains tense as investigations into the chairman's alleged role in the local legislative crisis continue.