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.
The suspension was a result of his expression of concern over alleged irregularities in the 2024 national budget. RAID is calling for the swift and unconditional reinstatement of Senator Ningi.
The president of RAID, Balarabe Rufai, disclosed this in Abuja, during a press briefing, said that the suspension of Senator Abdul Ningi from the National Assembly is a matter of great concern and one that it will approach with both seriousness and sensitivity.
He said that it is crucial to navigate this situation with the utmost respect for all parties involved and for the democratic principles that guide the nation.
Rufai said: “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. Today, we will share details on this decision, the reasons behind it, and how we plan to move forward, always with the goal of ensuring the well-being and stability of our nation.
“We appreciate your attention and understanding, and we are open to any questions you may have. This suspension extinguished the senator’s esteemed privileges and effectively muted a voice that had become a staple in our political discourse.”
He highlighted the impact of the senator’s expulsion from the Senate floors, describing it as a catastrophe that robs the nation of a powerful political advocate.
Rufai added, “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.”
