Senator Ningi Recalled from Suspension

Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi has been reinstated by the Senate following his suspension.

Representing Bauchi Central, Ningi was suspended on March 12, 2024, after accusing the Senate of budget padding.

He was reinstated about two weeks before the end of his three-month suspension, which was set to conclude on June 12, 2024.

The recall process began on Tuesday with a motion from Deputy Minority Leader Sen. Abba Moro, who expressed regret on behalf of Ningi.

Moro accepted full responsibility for Ningi’s actions and acknowledged the severity of the suspension.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced Ningi’s unconditional recall after a brief appeal by some lawmakers.

In a BBC interview, Ningi claimed that projects worth N3.7 trillion were unaccounted for in the 2024 budget, sparking public outrage and questions directed at the lawmakers.

Responding to Ningi’s allegations, Akpabio stated that the accusation had damaged the Senate’s reputation and eroded public trust.

“Nigerians are criticizing the Senate. Many will no longer respect this chamber in the future. The integrity of this chamber has been severely compromised, and we wanted you to address this in your speech,” Akpabio remarked.

Following a plenary interrogation, Ningi was accused of causing mischief and suspended for three months.