Bauchi govt backs suspended senator Ningi

The Bauchi State Government has voiced its support for Senator Abdul Ningi, who represents Bauchi Central in the National Assembly, following his suspension by the Senate.

Governor Bala Mohammed expressed solidarity with Senator Ningi during the weekly State Executive Council meeting held at the Government House in Bauchi.

Ningi was suspended for three months by the Senate at the Committee of the Whole, chaired by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The suspension came after Ningi raised concerns about alleged budget padding amounting to N3 trillion in the 2024 budget, among other issues.

Responding to the suspension, Senator Ningi clarified that he was quoted out of context but maintained that he possessed evidence to support his concerns about the budget.

Governor Mohammed, in a statement shared on his official X handle (formerly Twitter), reiterated the government’s unwavering support for Senator Ningi. He stressed the importance of accommodating dissent in the country’s political landscape without resorting to punitive measures.

He stated, “In today’s State Executive Council meeting, I made it clear that I stand firm in our support for Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi of Bauchi Central. I emphasized the importance of preserving dissent within our political landscape without resorting to punitive actions.”

Mohammed also affirmed his commitment to further examine Senator Ningi’s situation. He highlighted Ningi’s commendable performance as a senator and praised his heritage, uprightness, ancestry, and integrity.

The Bauchi State Government’s declaration of support comes amid ongoing discussions about the suspension and underscores the importance of allowing differing viewpoints in Nigeria’s political discourse.