The Nigerian Senate has officially pardoned and recalled Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, who had been under suspension since March 12, 2024.
The recall process was initiated on Tuesday, May 28, 2024 following a motion by Deputy Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro, who expressed regret on behalf of Ningi and took full responsibility for his actions.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced Ningi’s unconditional recall after brief pleas from several lawmakers. Akpabio underscored Ningi’s resourcefulness and value to the Senate, noting that the decision to recall him transcended religious and ethnic divides.
Ningi’s suspension was initially scheduled to end on June 12, 2024, but he has been recalled approximately two weeks early.
On March 12, 2024, the Senate suspended Ningi over allegations related to the padding of the 2024 Budget by ₦3.7 trillion. Representing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Bauchi Central Senatorial District, Ningi faced a three-month suspension after a heated session in the Senate.
Senate President Akpabio had characterized Ningi’s offenses as “grievous.” Following a voice vote, the majority of lawmakers supported Ningi’s suspension.
Ningi had previously claimed in an interview that the Federal Government was operating two versions of the 2024 budget, alleging that the ₦28.7 trillion budget passed and signed into law by President Bola Tinubu was biased against the North. He later clarified that he did not accuse the government of having two budgets but maintained that ₦3.7 trillion of the budget was not tied to any specific projects.
During the recall process, Senator Abba Moro said, “We regret the actions that led to Senator Ningi’s suspension and take full responsibility for them. It is crucial for the Senate to move forward united.”
President of the Senate Godswill Akpabio emphasized, “Senator Ningi has been a valuable member of this legislative body. His recall is a testament to our commitment to unity and progress beyond any divisions.”
Ningi’s return marks the end of a significant chapter in Senate proceedings, highlighting the complexities of legislative governance and the ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s budgetary process.
