ACF Criticizes Senate: Calls Ningi’s Suspension Hasty

ACF Criticizes Senate: Calls Ningi’s Suspension Hasty

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has strongly criticized the Senate’s decision to suspend Senator Abdul Ningi over his allegations of budget padding, labeling the move as rushed and lacking due process…….READ ALSO ACF Condemns Abduction Of School Children, Labels It An Assault On Education In Northern Nigeria

Senator Ningi had previously raised concerns about the alleged padding of the 2024 budget to the tune of N3.7 trillion by the Senate, prompting his suspension for three months on grounds of making unfounded allegations.

In a statement issued by the ACF National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tukur-Baba, the forum expressed disapproval of the Senate’s handling of the matter, advocating for an independent investigation rather than a swift suspension.

The ACF highlighted that the suspension appeared to prioritize scrutinizing the messenger rather than the message itself. It emphasized the importance of allowing an impartial inquiry into the allegations to maintain transparency and accountability.

The forum underscored the significance of Senator Ningi’s representation for the communities in Northern Nigeria and lamented the absence of his voice in the Senate for the next three months.

While acknowledging the Senate’s constitutional authority to manage its affairs, the ACF urged for a more cautious and considerate approach in addressing criticism and ensuring robust debates on public policy issues.

In conclusion, the ACF reiterated its support for Senator Ningi and urged the Senate to uphold the principles of fairness and due process in handling such matters, emphasizing the vital role of open dialogue in strengthening democracy.