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Published on 2024-03-13 13:52:04
Fresh Crisis Looms in Bauchi as Governor Backs Ningi and Faults Senate’s Suspension
The political landscape in Bauchi State took a dramatic turn when Governor Bala Mohammed expressed unwavering support for Senator Abdul Ningi following the Senate’s decision to suspend him for three months. The suspension stemmed from Senator Ningi’s bold inquiry into the whereabouts of N3.7 trillion in the 2024 budget, a move that raised eyebrows among his colleagues. As a result of this suspension, Senator Ningi decided to step down as the Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum, signaling a significant shift in the political dynamics of the state.
Governor Bala Mohammed’s public declaration of support for Senator Ningi sent shockwaves through the political establishment in Bauchi. The governor, during a State Executive Council meeting at the Bauchi Government House, expressed his disappointment with the Senate’s decision to suspend Senator Ningi, whom he described as one of the best representatives from Bauchi. Governor Mohammed emphasized the importance of standing up for the truth, lauding Senator Ningi for his courage and commitment to transparency in governance. He vowed to explore avenues to offer support to the embattled senator, emphasizing the need to rally behind individuals who dare to speak up against injustice and corruption.
In response to the Senate’s suspension of Senator Ningi, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation, Senator Olamilekan Adeola, introduced a new process to expedite the review and approval of the 2024 Money Bill. This initiative aimed to streamline the budgetary process and ensure accountability in government spending. Meanwhile, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim proposed a motion to extend Senator Ningi’s suspension to 12 months, citing allegations of criminal misinformation and disruption of peace within the National Assembly. However, after intense deliberations, the Senate agreed to a three-month suspension for Senator Ningi, a decision that sparked mixed reactions among senators.
Senator Ningi’s resignation as the Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum was a significant development in the aftermath of his suspension. His decision to step down came shortly after the Senate suspended him over allegations of budget padding. In his resignation letter, Senator Ningi criticized the federal government led by President Bola Tinubu for approving a budget higher than what was debated and passed by the Senate. This move underscored Senator Ningi’s commitment to upholding transparency and accountability in government operations, even in the face of political adversity.
The unfolding crisis in Bauchi highlights the complex interplay between political power and ethical governance in Nigeria’s democratic system. Senator Ningi’s suspension and subsequent resignation underscore the challenges faced by lawmakers who dare to challenge the status quo and demand accountability from government officials. As the fallout from this controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the political landscape in Bauchi will be reshaped by these events. In the midst of this turmoil, Governor Bala Mohammed’s steadfast support for Senator Ningi serves as a beacon of hope for those who believe in the power of truth and integrity in public service.
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