The Coalition for Democratic Governance in Africa (CDGA) has demanded that the Federal Government suspend statutory monthly allocations to Zamfara and Benue states until their respective Houses of Assembly are properly constituted and functional.

In a statement issued by its Convener, Dr. Paul Barka, the coalition described the current governance structure in both states as unconstitutional, warning that executive decision-making without legislative oversight threatens Nigeria's democratic foundations.

"This isn't just a procedural issue—it is a deliberate erosion of democratic checks and balances," Barka stated. "Governors are now unilaterally signing budgets, making appointments, and spending public funds with no legislative scrutiny. That's an abuse of power."

The coalition highlighted that in Zamfara, ten lawmakers were suspended for speaking against escalating insecurity and governance failures, while in Benue, the executive arm has allegedly rendered the legislature inactive and ceremonial.

Precedent from Osun State

CDGA referenced the recent case of Osun State, where the Federal Government withheld local government funds over alleged breaches of democratic procedures, commending this action while calling for similar standards to be applied uniformly.

"We applaud the Federal Government's decision to suspend allocations to Osun local governments until democratic order is restored. It sends a strong message that constitutional violations won't be condoned," the statement read. "But the same level of accountability must be extended to Benue and Zamfara, where state governors continue to operate without functional legislative assemblies."

According to the coalition, continuing federal disbursements under such conditions not only violates the Constitution but also enables anti-democratic behavior at the state level.

Call for Institutional Action

The group urged institutions like the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation to act swiftly to ensure public funds are not released to states operating outside constitutional frameworks.

"The Nigerian Constitution does not recognize military-style governance at the state level. Governors acting without oversight are nothing more than dictators wrapped in democratic clothing. That is not what Nigerians voted for," the statement emphasized.

While stressing that the suspension of funds should be temporary and aimed at restoring constitutional order, CDGA called on political stakeholders in both states to resolve their internal conflicts and return their Houses of Assembly to full operational status.