In a surprise move, the Senate has pardoned Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, recalling him from a three-month suspension imposed on March 12, 2024. The decision came after a motion by Deputy Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, who expressed regret on behalf of the suspended senator.
Senator Ningi’s troubles began when he accused the Senate of padding the 2024 Budget, a move that was seen as a breach of parliamentary etiquette. His suspension was met with mixed reactions, with some hailing it as a necessary disciplinary measure, while others saw it as an infringement on his right to free speech.
However, in a dramatic turn of events, Senator Moro moved a motion seeking Ningi’s recall, acknowledging the gravity of the suspension and pledging to assume full responsibility for his actions. The motion was widely supported, with many senators praising Ningi’s resourcefulness and valued contributions to the Senate.
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, emphasized that the decision to recall Ningi transcended religious and ethnic divides, noting that the senator’s skills and expertise were needed in the Senate. “We are a family, and we must learn to forgive and move forward,” Akpabio said.
With his pardon, Senator Ningi is expected to resume his duties, and his constituents are likely to breathe a sigh of relief. The move has been seen as a sign of the Senate’s commitment to reconciliation and moving forward, despite differences.
In a statement, Senator Ningi expressed gratitude to his colleagues for their support, promising to be more mindful of his actions in the future. “I am humbled by this gesture, and I pledge to continue working for the good of our great nation,” he said.
The pardon and recall of Senator Ningi have been hailed as a victory for democracy and a testament to the Senate’s ability to forgive and move forward. As the Senate continues its important work, Nigerians can only hope that this move will mark the beginning of a new era of cooperation and progress.