From John Bassey, Gusau
The Zamfara state government announced that the state House of Assembly passed 43 bills into law during the first two years of Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration.
Hon Bilyaminu Ismail Moriki, the Speaker of the House, shared this achievement during a media briefing in Gusau on Friday, May 2.
The briefing highlighted the 7th Assembly’s major accomplishments and challenges since its inauguration in June 2023. It also reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to keeping the public informed about legislative activities.
“It is evident that the doctrine of separation of powers among the executive, legislature, and judiciary clearly defines our roles and responsibilities. Within this framework, the legislature is mandated to make laws, provide oversight, and ensure effective representation,” Moriki said.
Moriki explained that the Assembly conducted thorough oversight after the passage and assent of the 2024 and 2025 Appropriation Bills. This ensured transparency and accountability across ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). He also noted that each House member worked closely with constituents to identify socio-political priorities for inclusion in the state’s annual budgets. These efforts have driven development across all 24 constituencies in Zamfara.
The Speaker described the Assembly’s relationship with the executive as cordial and productive, leading to progress in security, infrastructure, education, healthcare, and human capital development. He reaffirmed the Assembly’s support for Governor Lawal’s rescue mission and six-point agenda.
Addressing internal conflicts, Moriki expressed regret over actions by a few members who, he claimed, tried to undermine the House’s constitutional duties for personal gain. In February 2024, these members held an unlawful sitting, vandalised government property, impersonated officials, and blocked some legislators’ access. Moriki said these acts amounted to contempt of the House, leading to their suspension under relevant laws.
“In the spirit of justice and due process, the matter was referred to the court. While one member has tendered a written apology, others have continued to defy the law by convening an illegal gathering styled as a ‘parallel assembly’, he stated. He added that the Assembly awaits the court’s ruling before taking further action.
Moriki highlighted key laws passed, including the Zamfara State Community Protection Guard Law, Zamfara State Security Trust Fund Law, Zamfara State Consolidated Revenue Law, and Zamfara State Procurement Law. He stressed that all 43 bills underwent rigorous legislative processes, including public hearings, to reflect the needs and interests of Zamfara’s people.