In a dramatic turn of events, Nigeria’s Senate has suspended Senator Abdul Ningi, who represents Bauchi Central Senatorial District, for a period of three months. This decision comes on the heels of explosive claims made by Senator Ningi in an interview with the BBC, where he accused the National Assembly of an unaccounted-for N3.7 trillion in the 2024 budget.

Senator Ningi, also the chairman of the Northern Senators Forum, asserted that northern senators had enlisted the expertise of consultants to meticulously review the budget. In the interview, he expressed deep concern over the alleged “huge damage” inflicted on the north and the entire country by the budgetary discrepancies.

🔍 Probe and Denials: Unraveling the Budget Controversy!

The senator’s claims triggered an immediate call for a probe into the alleged financial irregularities. However, some northern senators distanced themselves from Ningi’s assertions, stating that he did not consult with them before making such statements.

Despite the disavowals, Senator Ningi stood firm on Monday, maintaining that the staggering sum of N3.7 trillion remained unaccounted for in the 2024 budget. This steadfast position has further intensified the ongoing controversy surrounding the budgetary allocations.

The suspension of Senator Abdul Ningi raises questions about the dynamics within the Senate and the seriousness with which budgetary transparency is regarded. As the nation watches, the unfolding drama underscores the challenges of fiscal accountability and the need for a thorough investigation into the alleged financial discrepancies. 🇳🇬💼