Court Nullifies Lawmaker’s Suspension from Kwara Assembly
Naija News • 4d ago
**Kwara Assembly's Suspension of Lawmaker Declared Null and Void**
In a shocking twist, a Kwara State Revenue Court in Ilorin has declared the suspension of Hon. Saba Yisa Gideon, a member of the Kwara State House of Assembly, as illegal and unconstitutional. The suspension, which was announced on December 18 last year, was met with resistance from the embattled lawmaker who took his case to court.
According to reports, Hon. Gideon was suspended for allegedly recording a meeting of the Assembly without consent and forwarding the recording to unauthorized persons. However, the court ruled that the suspension was carried out without sufficient notice, thereby breaching the rights of the lawmaker.
In a detailed judgement, the presiding judge, Justice Muritala Folorunsho, declared that the suspension was not covered by the Legislative Houses, Powers and Privileges Act and therefore, unconstitutional, unlawful, and null and void. He also stated that the suspension was an unlawful denial of the lawmaker's constitutional rights.
This development has significant implications for the Kwara State House of Assembly, particularly in the context of the current political climate in the state. The ruling party has been criticized for its handling of opposition members, and this verdict is seen as a victory for democratic principles and the rule of law.
The court's decision has also sparked debate about the powers of the Assembly and the rights of its members. While the Assembly has the power to discipline its members, the court's ruling suggests that such disciplinary actions must be carried out in accordance with constitutional provisions and due process.
In conclusion, the nullification of Hon. Gideon's suspension is a significant victory for the rule of law and democratic principles in Kwara State. It serves as a reminder that even the most powerful institutions must operate within the bounds of the law and respect the rights of all citizens, including lawmakers.