Tension in Zamfara as 7-man panel begins sitting impeachment of Dep. Gov. Gusau

There are indications of fresh tension in Zamfara State as the seven-man investigative panel appointed by the State Chief Judge, Justice Kulu Aliyu, commenced sitting on the investigation of Deputy Governor Mahadi Aliyu Gusau, in Gusau. The Zamfara State House of Assembly had in November 2021 started impeachment process of the Deputy Governor, Mahdai Aliyu, over allegations of breach of the constitution, misappropriation of funds, gross misconduct, and abuse of office.

Members of the Panel include Justice Halidu Tanko Sabo (rtd), Oladipo Okpeseyi (SAN) , Abdul Atadoga Ibrahim (SAN), Hussaini Zakariya’u (SAN), Amina Tanimu Marafa, Sani Mande and Ahmad Buhari Rabah, Barrister Ashiru Tsafe was appointed Secretary.

It was gathered that Deputy Governor Gusau was absent at the first sitting of the panel, neither did he send any Counsel or official to represent him.

The Panel Secretary, Barrister Ashiru Tsafe, confirmed that he has served the impeachment Notice on the Deputy Governor, including his invitation to appear before the committee through electronic mail, Whatsapp; he presented scan copies of delivery report.

Counsel to state lawmakers, Nasiru Jangebe, called in seven witnesses for cross-examination during the sitting of the panel.

Each witness stood in while the other six were requested to go out of the venue.

The first witness, Abubakar Mohammed, 49 years, Director General and Secretary to the Zamfara State Executive Council, acknowledged the documents he presented at the panel, which include the Notice of Meetings sent to the Deputy Governor.

Deputy Governor Mahdi Aliyu Gusau had at a press conference in Abuja, declared that he has no confidence in the Committee appointed by the Chief Justice of State.