Impeachment threat: Let the law take its course, says Bankole

The speaker, who arrived at the Presidential Wing of the Murtala Mohammed Airport (MMA), Lagos from Abuja around 10:55 am aboard a presidential aircraft yesterday, however, declined comments on whether he was bothered by the seven-day ultimatum served him by the group.

Speaking on the June 12 celebration, he said eminent Nigerians who laid down their lives for the sustenance of democracy were worth celebrating by all and sundry. The speaker, however, did not speak on how the eminent Nigerians should be celebrated or immortalized.

He said, “We are all here today and enjoying democracy based on the war fought by some eminent Nigerians 17 years ago. They should be celebrated. But I think we can think on the type of immortalization that should be given to them.”

Last week, some members of the House issued a seven-day ultimatum to Dimeji Bankole to resign his position as speaker of the House. The group, which christened itself the “Progressive Members” of the House, said their deman for the speaker’s resignation was a clarion call to right the wrongs in the legislative practice under Bankole.

Making the declaration at a press conference in Abuja, Dino Melaye, who spoke on behalf of the group, said the speaker is being called to resign on the grounds of corruption and his leadership style which has been largely responsible for the rift, disagreement and disharmony between the chambers of the National Assembly.

Other members of the group present at the press briefing include: Austin Nwanchukwu, West Idahosa, Independence Ogunewe, Solomon Ahwinawi, Asita Honourable, Bitrus Kaze, Linus, Aba Adamu, Ralphn Okeke and Dalington Onabuchi.

Melaye added that the relationship between the Senate and the House has never been as bad as it is presently. He further cited highhandedness, disrespect for members and frequent breaches of the rules of the House as other reasons why Bankole must resign.