By Fatima Saka
Senate Minority Leader and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Senator Abba Moro, has condemned the political crisis rocking Benue State, describing the forced resignation of the Speaker of the State House of Assembly as “a very unfortunate development” and a grave threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
Speaking on Tuesday in Abuja during a media chat, the Senator, who represents Benue South Senatorial District, said the Speaker’s removal stemmed from the House’s refusal to confirm two commissioner nominees with multiple petitions against them.
According to Moro, the legislature’s stance reflected democratic principles and the will of the people but instead triggered political retaliation.
“For the first time, Nigerians hailed the Benue State House of Assembly for mustering the courage to reject unqualified nominees. That courage has now become their offence, and it has consumed the Speaker,” he said, emphasizing that the Speaker’s handwritten resignation letter showed the level of pressure exerted.
Moro warned that other members of the Assembly who opposed the nominations might also face reprisals, deepening political instability in the state. He argued that such developments undermine democratic norms and weaken the independence of legislative institutions.
The Minority Leader’s comments come amid growing concerns over Nigeria’s democratic process following the recent by-elections across the country, which he described as “highly militarized.”
He cited reports of excessive deployment of security forces, including soldiers and armed policemen, to polling units, particularly in Zamfara State, where an election in a single constituency reportedly saw security personnel drawn from surrounding communities and states.
“This is not good for democracy. Nigeria, as Africa’s largest democracy, should be setting the standard, not eroding it,” Moro said, calling on President Bola Tinubu to rein in security agencies to protect electoral integrity.
On preparations for the 2027 general elections, Moro said the PDP is focused on internal unity and strategic planning, praising the outcome of the party’s recent National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, which finalized zoning arrangements for key leadership positions. He expressed optimism that the party’s early organizational steps would give it a competitive edge ahead of the next polls.
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“The PDP is enjoying relative peace and stability, and Nigerians are excited about that. While 2027 is still far, we are already laying the groundwork to be competitive,” he said.
Distinct News reports that the unfolding political crisis in Benue State is expected to intensify political discourse ahead of the next electoral cycle, with analysts warning that state-level tensions could have national implications if not addressed swiftly.
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