The Senate took decisive action on Tuesday, suspending Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) for three months following his allegations of budget padding amounting to N3 trillion in the 2024 budget.
Senator Ningi also asserted a disparity between the passed budget of N25 trillion and the Presidency’s implementation of N28.7 trillion.
Additionally, Senator Sumaila Kawu (NNPP – Kano South) received a warning to refrain from disseminating false information that could disrupt the Senate’s proceedings. These disciplinary measures were adopted following a motion on urgent national importance.
Before Ningi’s suspension, the Senate had previously suspended several senators for various offenses.
Here is a list of seven Nigerian senators who faced suspension:
- Femi Okurounmu (Ogun Central) – Suspended in 1999 for alleging a plot to impeach President Obasanjo.
- Joseph Waku (Benue) – Suspended in 2000 for controversial remarks regarding military intervention.
- Arthur Nzeribe (Imo, Orlu Constituency) – Indefinitely suspended in 2002 over a fraud allegation.
- Isah Mohammed (Niger Central) – Suspended in October 2004 for assaulting Senator Iyabo Anisulowo.
- Ali Ndume (Borno South) – Received a six-month suspension in 2017 for various allegations.
- Ovie Omo-Agege (Delta Central) – Suspended for three months in 2018 over comments on electoral timetable reordering.
- Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) – Received a three-month suspension on Tuesday for his allegations of budget padding.
Senator Ningi’s suspension adds to the Senate’s history of enforcing disciplinary measures to maintain order and integrity within its ranks.