The Nigerian Senate has suspended Senator Abdul Ningi, representing Bauchi Central Senatorial District, for three months. This decision came after a series of discussions and controversies surrounding allegations made by Ningi regarding the 2024 budget.
What led to the suspension
Senator Ningi, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Population in an interview with the Hausa service of the BBC, made claims that the National Assembly passed two versions of the 2024 budget, one of which was purportedly padded by N3.7 trillion. This claim sent shockwaves through the Senate leading to a heated debate on the floor.
Why the motion for suspension was moved
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim of Ondo South, a member of the Appropriation Committee, moved a motion for Ningi’s suspension for 12 months, citing misinformation and breach of peace in the National Assembly and the country at large. The motion was seconded by Senator Ede Dafinone of Delta Central.
Interestingly, Ningi has since denied making the statements attributed to him. During an open session in the Senate, he clarified that he never claimed the budget was padded nor accused anyone of running two budgets. He attributed the misunderstanding to a misinterpretation of his words and a fake document circulating in his name.
The Senate, led by President Godswill Akpabio, was turbo-charged following these developments. Senator Olamilekan Adeola of Ogun West, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, raised a motion to urgently address Ningi’s false allegation. After a series of amendments, the Senate decided to suspend Ningi for three months.
The suspension of Ningi has sparked a wider debate about transparency and accountability in the National Assembly. Some senators have distanced themselves from Ningi’s claims, while others have called for a more lenient approach.
As Ningi serves his suspension, the Senate is expected to continue its investigation into the allegations. The incident highlights the complexities of governance and the importance of clear communication in the legislative process.
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