Plateau speaker’s impeachment saga stirs worry among Jos residents

The impeachment recently of Nuhu Abok Ayuba as the Plateau State House of Assembly Speaker has continued to generate reactions particularly in Jos, the state capital.  

Abok was impeached by 16 out of the 24 members of the house and replaced by Yakubu Sanda, but both parties and supporters have continued to hold onto the seat.  

Speaking on the issue, Haruna Yusuf Abba who resides in Jos North said he is disappointed with the whole issue, adding if not properly handled it can result to violence and return the state to days of mistrust.  

Isaac Abraham, who resides in Kufang area of Jos South, said people keep giving the impeachment different interpretations that could easily trigger violence.  

He called on the people to avoid rumour mongering, and the actors as well as relevant authorities to do all they could to resolve the impasse so that it does not degenerate.  

Another resident, Pwakim Jacob Choji, said it is unfortunate that the state has been in the news for the wrong reasons, adding that  the recent impasse in the House of Assembly is a critical example and every citizen must be worried.  

Chojo, who is the Executive Director, Youth Initiative Against Violence & Human Rights Abuse (YIAVHA), said people should stand by the constitution of the country so that it did not become like tissue paper.  

“We call on the members of the House of Assembly to think leadership rather than parochial interests that don’t sort out the challenge of the many internally displaced persons in our communities,  the raging poverty in our homes, the persistence of violence and youth restiveness among many others.   

“We equally call on all concerned persons and citizens to see things beyond party lines as we are victims of the entire impasse. At this point,  leaders of thought must begin to see how this issue can be brought to a halt with key lessons learned,” he said.