Niger Assembly Suspends Plenary Sessions Indefinitely Amid Rift with Executive Branch

On Tuesday, the Niger House of Assembly suspended its sittings indefinitely, citing unresolved issues with the executive arm of the state.

The suspension followed a motion introduced by Mohammed Abubakar‑Kabir, the member for Chanchaga Constituency, who is popularly known as Ustaz. He requested that the house halt proceedings until all unresolved issues with the executive were addressed.

Although he did not specify the alleged issues, Ustaz warned that posterity would judge members if they continued to allow pending matters with the executive to be swept under the carpet.

He added that lawmakers must act to safeguard the independence of the legislature.

Abdulrahman Gambo, the member for Borgu Constituency, seconded the motion.

Jibrin Ndagi‑Baba, the member for Lavun Constituency, then moved a countermotion, arguing that there was no need to suspend the day's business over issues with the executive.

The debate between supporters and opponents of the motion nearly degenerated into a rowdy session, with most members insisting that the house suspend the sitting.

Consequently, Speaker Abdulmalik Sarkindaji intervened, urging calm and respect for each other's opinions.

After a heated argument, the speaker called for a vote on the motion, which the supporters of the plenary suspension won.

The house then suspended the plenary session and moved into an executive session to discuss the alleged unresolved issues. (NAN)