Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
In a decisive move to uphold legislative confidentiality and institutional discipline, the Kwara State House of Assembly has suspended one of its members for three months following allegations that he secretly recorded a closed‑door meeting and shared the audio with an unauthorised individual. The lawmaker at the centre of the controversy, Hon. Saba Yisa Gideon, who represents Edu State Constituency, was sanctioned during Thursday’s plenary after admitting to the conduct when the matter was formally raised on the floor of the legislative chamber.
The suspension was introduced without prior notice by the Leader of the House, Abdulkadir Magaji, who cited relevant provisions of the Assembly’s rules on privileges and the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act, 2017, framing the unauthorised recording and dissemination as both a breach of privilege and an act of contempt capable of bringing the legislature into disrepute.
Debate over the issue drew contributions from several lawmakers, highlighting the seriousness with which the House views the protection of its internal processes and the need to maintain the integrity of its proceedings. According to the Speaker, the unauthorised recording violated established legislative norms that govern the confidentiality of closed sessions and the handling of sensitive information shared among members.
Beyond the suspension, the Assembly also directed that Gideon submit a formal written apology to the House within the suspension period, signalling that the disciplinary action is intended not just to penalise but to emphasise the expectations of conduct and decorum for elected representatives.
The action reflects broader concerns within legislative bodies nationwide about maintaining trust and professionalism, especially concerning how internal deliberations are communicated to the public and stakeholders. By enforcing rules against the unauthorised disclosure of proceedings, the Kwara Assembly is reinforcing the principle that closed‑door sessions are privileged spaces intended for candid discussion without external interference or premature disclosure.
Observers say the suspension may also serve as a cautionary example to other lawmakers, underscoring that mechanisms exist within legislative frameworks to address perceived misconduct and preserve institutional credibility. Whether the incident will prompt further review of recording policies or additional procedural safeguards remains to be seen, but for now the Assembly’s decision signals a clear message about the consequences of breaching its established rules.
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