The Ebonyi Caucus in Nigeria’s House of Representatives has urged the dismissal of a petition filed against Governor Francis Nwifuru, arguing that it breaches constitutional provisions and legislative protocols.
The petition, submitted by Hon. Ugochinyere Ikenga, alleges the governor’s involvement in the arrest and detention of Ohanaeze Youth Leader Igboayaka O. Igboayaka. Igboayaka was arrested in Imo State, transferred to Ebonyi, and later detained at the Abakaliki Correctional Centre following comments he made before and after a deadly attack in Obegu, Ishielu Local Government Area, which claimed 15 lives.
Speaking on the House floor, Caucus leader Hon. Iduma Igariwey challenged the validity of the petition, citing Section 308(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which grants sitting governors immunity from legal proceedings. He also noted that legislative procedures require consulting lawmakers from the affected state before submitting such petitions, a step Ikenga allegedly skipped.
“Our privilege has been violated. This petition contains criminal allegations against a serving governor, which contradicts constitutional provisions,” Igariwey stated.
He further questioned the House Committee on Public Petitions’ intent, arguing that summoning a sitting governor contradicts established legal frameworks.
The Ebonyi Caucus insists that the petition be withdrawn, citing procedural breaches and the governor’s constitutional immunity. The debate underscores broader concerns about the limits of legislative oversight when dealing with high-ranking public officials.
Watch the debate here:https://www.facebook.com/100069054122333/posts/pfbid028cNYBfJPrw68vhmZ9XWeFRyH9gnaogmnxmwWc6chmxPwoU4XUKRytowTsnPnjN8l/?app=fbl
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