Constituents from the Bauchi Central Senatorial District have vehemently criticized the Nigerian Senate’s decision to suspend their representative, Senator Abdul Ningi, for a period of three months. They argue that the suspension stems from Ningi’s genuine concerns regarding irregularities within the 2024 national budget.
It was announced by the Senate, that Senator Ningi, who serves as the representative for Bauchi Central, was slammed with suspension last Tuesday due to his remarks regarding the N3.7 trillion allegedly unaccounted for in the 2024 budget. Subsequently, Ningi stepped down from his position as Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum (NSF).
Responding to Ningi’s suspension, constituents under the banner of the Youth Coalition of Bauchi Central Senatorial District expressed their discontent. Led by chairman Nazeef Abdullahi Rio, the coalition convened a press conference in Bauchi on Thursday, called on the Senate to reconsider its decision and instead initiate an investigation into the irregularities highlighted by Ningi.
Rio emphasized, “We demand that the Senate immediately reverse its decision of suspending our Senator. Recall him back to his seat so that he will continue representing our dear constituency and the country at large.” The coalition stressed the importance of addressing the concerns raised by Ningi in the best interest of the nation.
Furthermore, Rio cautioned that if the Senate failed to respond to their demands within a two-week timeframe, constituents of the Bauchi Central Senatorial District would pursue legal recourse to uphold their constitutional rights. Rio highlighted the frustration felt by constituents, stating, “To our total dismay, instead of the senate to commend Senator Ningi for his patriotic discovery and investigate the irregularities with a view to addressing them in the best interest of the country, it ended up unjustifiably suspending him, thereby denying his rights as Senator and a Nigerian.”
The coalition reiterated its call for a thorough investigation into all alleged irregularities within the 2024 budget, emphasizing the importance of accountability and transparency. They warned of legal implications should the Senate fail to act. The coalition affirmed to it’s determination to ensure the protection of constituents’ constitutional rights.
In conclusion, the Youth Coalition of Bauchi Central Senatorial District highlighted its determination to hold the Senate accountable and uphold the principles of good governance, emphasizing the need for swift and decisive action to address the concerns raised by Senator Ningi.
