Reps Split Over Motion Challenging Global Religious Killing Claims
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu ruled the motion passed despite loud opposition, then moved members into a closed-door session.
A motion challenging international claims about religious killings in Nigeria triggered a rowdy session in the House of Representatives on Tuesday. Lawmakers clashed while debating the fallout from U.S. President Donald Trump’s comments placing Nigeria on a religious-freedom watchlist.
The motion was raised by Hon. Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala and backed by Hon. Muktar Tolani Shagaya, who argued that Nigeria is being wrongly portrayed as a nation divided by faith. They insisted the House must push back against claims suggesting the government allows persecution.
Trouble began when a loud chorus of “Nay” from opposing lawmakers greeted the voice vote. Despite this, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu ruled that the motion had passed, prompting an uproar on the floor.
With tempers rising and members trading words, Kalu moved the House into a closed-door session to restore order and continue deliberations out of public view.
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