Confirmation has been made by the Nigerian Senate regarding the absence of any covert arrangement to reinstate Abdul Ningi, the suspended senator representing Bauchi Central.
Senate’s spokesperson, Yemi Adaramodu (APC, Ekiti South), addressed this matter on Monday when questioned about the alleged agreement between Senate President, GodsWill Akpabio, and the embattled lawmaker to resolve the issue privately.
It is recalled that on March 13, the Senate imposed a three-month suspension on Ningi over accusations of budget padding amounting to N3.7 trillion in the 2024 fiscal year.
Following his suspension, two weeks later, Ningi, through his legal representative, Femi Falana, SAN, sent a letter to the Senate President demanding his reinstatement or facing legal consequences.
Subsequently, there were media reports suggesting that Ningi had reconciled with Akpabio and certain influential figures behind closed doors and was set to return to work with his colleagues.
Nonetheless, Adaramodu emphasized that there was no provision for such secretive agreements, as the fate of Ningi lies solely in the hands of the 108 senators.
He mentioned, “I am not privy to any clandestine arrangement, and to the best of my knowledge, none exists.
“An infringement occurred due to the actions of our esteemed colleague, Senator Abdul Ningi, resulting in a thorough public debate within the Senate, allowing him to present his defense and senators to weigh in on the matter, ultimately leading to the determination that a breach had indeed taken place.”
The senator further stated that upon the Senate reconvening on Tuesday, if Ningi pleads his case, the senators will convene to assess it on its merits.
In response to speculation about potential legal interventions, similar to the case of former Deputy Senate President Ovie-Omo-Agege, Adaramodu clarified, “I am not a judicial body. The circumstances surrounding Senator Omo-Agege and Ningi are distinctly unique. Just like other institutions have disciplinary procedures, so does the legislative branch.”
Regarding concerns regarding the representation of Ningi’s constituents during his suspension, Adaramodu underscored that disciplinary measures solely limit a legislator from engaging in chamber activities.