A Nigerian lawmaker accuses the Deputy Speaker of bias against first-term members, leading to a dramatic walkout during a House of Representatives session. The incident highlights tensions between new and established legislators, raising questions about inclusivity and representation in Nigeria's parliament.
In a dramatic turn of events, the Nigerian House of Representatives witnessed a heated confrontation on Tuesday when a member accused the Deputy Speaker of discriminating against first-term lawmakers. The incident, which culminated in a walkout, has raised questions about the chamber's dynamics and the representation of newer voices in legislative debates.
Representative Cyril Hart, a first-term member from Rivers State, publicly challenged Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu's management of the plenary session. Hart alleged that Kalu consistently favored senior members during discussions, particularly on a motion addressing recent suicide bombings in Borno State.
"You need to allow for fresh ideas. Some of us know more than the old, ranking members," Hart declared before storming out of the chamber, rejecting colleagues' attempts to calm him.
The confrontation unfolded following contributions from several long-serving members on the security motion. Hart contended that this pattern of preference stifles new perspectives and undermines the democratic process.
Deputy Speaker Kalu defended his approach, stating, "There is no discrimination in the parliament. It depends on when you raise your hand and the area you are focusing on."
As the House moves forward with its probe into the Borno bombings, the altercation serves as a reminder of the challenges in managing a diverse legislative body.
