The Legislative Complex of Bauchi State House of Assembly was taken over by security operatives on Monday July 4. Sani Burra, the Special Adviser on State and National Assembly Liaison to Governor Bala Mohammed, confirmed that the action was necessary to prevent a breakdown of law and order following an attempt by hoodlums to set the complex ablaze.
“Some unknown persons last night (Sunday) had attempted to burn the House complex as a result of which the security persons have taken over the place to avoid a break of law and order. Immediately I was contacted, I informed the state commissioner of police on behalf of the state government for necessary and prompt action. He too immediately mobilised personnel to the complex to ensure that no damage is done,” Burra said.
The crisis seemed to be focused on the leadership of the House rather than against the Executive. Efforts are being made to pacify the 22 lawmakers to wait for their colleagues who are presently on pilgrimages to Saudi Arabia and Israel before taking any further action.
Some of the lawmakers in the assembly had asked the house leaders to resign on Friday, after passing a vote of no confidence on them, citing alleged ineptitude and dereliction of duty.