Diaspora petition: Plateau reps pass vote of confidence on deputy speaker

The Plateau state caucus in the house of representatives has passed a vote of confidence on Idris Wase, deputy speaker of the green chamber who has been receiving backlash over his position on a petition from Nigerians in the diaspora.

TheCable had reported how Wase rejected a petition from the ‘Mutual Union of the Tiv in America’ which accused the federal government of not resettling the Tiv people displaced by the farmer-herder crises.

While ruling against it, the deputy speaker questioned the eligibility of the group, saying: “I am not convinced that somebody from America can come here and then delaying issues in Nigeria.”

His decision was widely criticised by many Nigerians but Wase said his contention was on the “legality of the petitioners and not on whether Nigerians in the diaspora have a right to petition the house or not”.

In a statement on Monday, Beni Lar, leader of the Plateau caucus, said the incident was given “ethnic and political colouration”.

“We, the entire members of the Plateau State Caucus in the House of Representatives to reiterate our full confidence in the Leadership of the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Ahmed Idris Wase,” she said.

“Our resolve has become imperative following an unfortunate incident between the Deputy Speaker and another colleague during plenary which has since gone viral on social media.

“The incident has since been given an ethnic and political colouration which ought to be a purely parliamentary affair.

“Let it be noted that the Rt. Hon Idris Wase is a seasoned legislator who has over the years represented the people of Wase, Plateau, the North Central and the entire nation effectively. During this period he has enjoyed the tremendous respect of his colleagues and his people.”

Lar added that Wase is “known to have listening ears” and has bee instrumental to the development of the nation.

“We as a caucus, therefore, implore the public not to misunderstand the intentions of the Deputy Speaker who is known to act in accordance with laid down procedures,” the lawmaker said.