The member representing Hadejia, Auyo and Kafin Hausa Federal Constituency of Jigawa State in the House of Representatives, Hon Usman Ibrahim Auyo, has dismissed media reports quoting him as saying that federal lawmakers collect money before sponsoring motions, bills and petitions at the National Assembly.
The lawmaker, reacting to a viral video in which he spoke in Hausa, said his comments were taken out of context and misrepresented in the media.
“It would be recalled that on August 11, 2025, I granted an interview with Freedom Radio, Kano, where I highlighted our development and achievements since being elected into office.
“Unfortunately, as the video spread, some journalists didn’t get the lines very well; they misinterpreted my words and misquoted me in their reportage, which led to the spreading of fake news.”
He stressed that he never alleged that members were paid between N1 million and N3 million to push bills or motions, describing such insinuations as “false and misleading.”
According to him, his remarks during the interview were a response to criticisms from his constituents but were twisted to portray him badly.
Auyo maintained that legislative processes at the National Assembly are guided by laid-down procedures and not by financial inducements as alleged.
He described the reports as “false and politically motivated,” insisting that his words were misinterpreted.
“Unfortunately, as the video spread, some journalists didn’t get the lines very well. They misinterpreted my words and misquoted me in their reportage”.
The lawmaker clarified that his explanation was only to show how lawmakers sometimes engage consultants to prepare documents that aid bill sponsorship, stressing that this was not a condition for bills to be accepted in the National Assembly.
He appealed to journalists and media organisations to uphold ethical standards and avoid publishing misleading reports that could trigger unnecessary tension.
“Our media houses should prioritise fact-checking and dissociate themselves from any publication that can cause chaos or spread misinformation, which undermines peaceful coexistence”.
Auyo also urged the public to disregard the reports, alleging that they were circulated for political purposes to tarnish his image and undermine his office.
