There has been tension in the House of Representatives over last Thursday’s appointment of chairmen and their deputies. It, however, rose yesterday when Garba Datti Muhammed representing Sabon Gari Federal Constituency, rejected his appointment as chairman of the Committee on Solid Minerals Development.
In a swift reaction, the House leadership reportedly replaced Datti with another lawmaker from his state, Suleiman Samalia. The development may signal fresh crisis for Speaker Yakubu Dogara.
Dogara announced the names of chairpersons and vice-chairpersons of 96 of 97 Standing Committees last Thursday.
Muhammed, who is of the APC, gave the reason for his withdrawal as lack of consultation before appointment.
Announcing his resignation, he said: “I feel as a former principal officer, I should have been consulted before my name was announced. I just heard of it on the floor. And I have my own principles. I have decided on my own to withdraw as the chairman of that committee.” This drew ovation from other members.