The Rebuild Arewa Initiative for Development (RAID) has condemned the Senate’s decision to suspend Senator Abdul Ningi for three months for expressing concern over irregularities in the 2024 national budget.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja, the group called for his swift and unconditional reinstatement.
President of the group Balarabe Rufai said Ningi’s three month suspension is a matter of great concern that needs to be approached with seriousness and sensitivity.
“It is important to us that we navigate this situation with the utmost respect for all parties involved and for the principles that guide our democracy.
“This suspension extinguished the senator’s esteemed privileges and effectively muted a voice that had become a staple in our political discourse,” he said.
The group added that Ningi’s suspension is aimed at silencing a potent political mouthpiece.
“The shockwaves of his suspension have triggered divisive views amongst his peers, with one senator condemning Ningi’s move as a so-called ‘civil coup’ and another calling for a meticulous investigation by the Ethics and Privileges Committee.
“Adding insult to injury, Senator Ningi has been stripped of his emoluments – his salary and allowances withheld, in what appears to be an injustice to his service and commitment,” the group added.
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