Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara have made it clear that they cannot be impeached because the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has not got the required numbers to do so.
In a joint statement today, Tuesday, both lawmakers alleged that Tuesday morning invasion of the Assembly complex by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) was an attempt by the executive and APC lawmakers to reposition leadership of the National Assembly.
“To reconvene, there is a process which has to be followed. Also, it should be clear that these Senators who are camped somewhere know the procedure for changing the leadership of the Senate.
“Both the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Presidency officials masterminding this illegality know that they do not have the numbers to lawfully carry out this action.”
The lawmakers claimed there was indications “that some Senators who are pro-executive arm are being camped somewhere here in Abuja and they are being compelled to sign an impeachment notice that would later be brought to the Assembly complex.”
They called on the international community to prevail on the situation noting that the Senate chamber will be forced open to enable an illegal change of leadership should the plans of APC succeed.
“This is a throw-back to the inglorious days of military rule where dissent is not tolerated and freedom of association and other fundamental human rights are willfully and carelessly violated.
“We urge Nigerians and the international community to condemn this illegal invasion of the National Assembly complex and the attempt to asphyxiate the legislature as undemocratic, uncivilized and irresponsible.” [myad]
