The Nigerian Senate has refuted claims of any backdoor arrangement to reinstate the suspended Bauchi Central senator, Abdul Ningi.
Senate spokesperson, Yemi Adaramodu (APC, Ekiti South), clarified this on Monday, responding to questions regarding the alleged private resolution between Senate President GodsWill Akpabio and the embattled lawmaker.
It’s recalled that on March 13, the Senate suspended Ningi for three months over allegations of N3.7 trillion padding in the 2024 budget.
Two weeks into his suspension, Ningi, through his lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, demanded reinstatement or threatened legal action.
Subsequent media reports suggested Ningi would resume after making peace with Akpabio and certain influential figures behind closed doors.
Adaramodu stated that only the 108 senators could decide Ningi’s fate, denying knowledge of any backdoor arrangements.
“There was an infraction by Senator Abdul Ningi, debated openly in a session where he defended himself. The Senate found an infraction,” he said.
He added that Ningi’s fate would be reviewed by the senators based on any plea he makes upon their return.
Regarding legal interventions, Adaramodu distinguished Ningi’s case from that of former Deputy Senate President Ovie-Omo-Agege, emphasizing the Senate’s disciplinary mechanisms.
Adaramodu also addressed concerns about Ningi’s constituents’ representation, explaining that suspension only bars a legislator from chamber activities.
