In a decisive move, the Senate, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, has suspended Senator Abdul Ningi amidst allegations of budget padding for the year 2024. Ningi, representing Bauchi Central Senatorial District, faced a three-month suspension following a contentious session within the red chamber.
The suspension stemmed from accusations leveled against Ningi, particularly by member Jimoh Ibrahim of the Appropriation Committee, who initially proposed a 12-month suspension citing allegations of criminal misinformation and disturbance of peace within the National Assembly and the wider nation. However, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, hailing from Cross River South Senatorial District, intervened, advocating for an amendment to reduce the duration of Ningi’s suspension.
The Senate’s decision reflects a concerted effort to address concerns of budgetary integrity and parliamentary decorum, signaling a commitment to upholding transparency and accountability within Nigeria’s legislative processes.