Kwara Lawmaker Suspended for 3 Months Over Secret Recording of Closed-Door Meeting

The Kwara State House of Assembly has taken disciplinary action against Saba Gideon, the representative for Edu State Constituency, suspending him for three months over allegations of contempt of the House and breach of legislative privilege. The suspension stems from Gideon’s alleged secret recording of a closed-door meeting of the Assembly, which he reportedly shared with an unauthorized individual.

During a plenary session on Thursday, lawmakers revealed that Gideon had admitted to the act when confronted about the matter. The motion for his suspension was moved by the Leader of the House, Abdulkadir Magaji, who cited Order 4, Rule 14 of the House Rules on Privileges and Section 14(2) of the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act, 2017.

Magaji emphasized the seriousness of Gideon’s actions, stating that the lawmaker’s decision to share sensitive information about the Assembly’s activities posed a risk to the institution. “Hon. Saba did something that can put this honourable House in jeopardy by sending sensitive information about its activities to the public,” Magaji said.

The suspension, which was approved by the House, is set to take effect immediately, with Gideon facing a three-month suspension from participating in Assembly proceedings. The move underscores the House’s commitment to maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of its proceedings.