State of Emergency Looms in Benue and Zamfara Amid Escalating Insecurity

The Nigerian House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions has summoned the governors and legislative leaders of Benue and Zamfara states to appear before it on May 8, 2025. This action follows a petition by the civil rights organization Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law, which urges the federal legislature to assume control over the functions of the two state assemblies due to ongoing crises and widespread killings.

The summons, signed by Committee Chairman Mike Etaba, requires the officials to present their cases and submit both soft and hard copies of their briefs. Failure to attend the hearing may result in the committee proceeding in their absence. 

The petition cites the governors' inability to address insecurity and other challenges in their states, calling for the National Assembly's intervention. The committee emphasizes the importance of upholding the rule of law and preventing anarchy in the nation's polity.

This development comes amid escalating violence in various regions, including Benue and Zamfara, raising concerns about the effectiveness of state governments in ensuring the safety and security of their citizens.