PDP Raises New Issues Over Ningi’s Suspension, Wants Akpabio To Step Aside

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is demanding an impartial investigation into the alleged insertion of N3.7 trillion into the 2024 budget for projects that do not exist. The part is also calling for the immediate stepping aside of Senate President Godswill Akpabio to ensure a fair investigation. These demands were articulated by the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, during a press conference held in Abuja on Wednesday.

Ologunagba emphasized the need for Senator Akpabio to present himself to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) regarding an ongoing case of alleged embezzlement of N108 billion during his tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom State. Furthermore, the PDP insists that Akpabio addresses the reported N86 billion contract scandal that occurred while he served as Minister of Niger Delta Affairs.

The PDP strongly condemned the suspension of Senator Abdul Ningi by the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership in the Senate without a thorough investigation into the issue of budget padding that he had raised. Ologunagba criticized this as an attempt to suppress inquiry and cover up the facts surrounding the alleged budget manipulation.

Moreover, the PDP expressed suspicion that prominent APC officials within the National Assembly and a high-ranking official in the Presidency have been complicit in diverting funds from the national treasury. The party as such questioned why the APC-led Senate did not refer the matter of budget padding to the appropriate Senate Standing Committee for an open investigation, as per the Senate’s rules.

The PDP spokesperson raised concerns over Akpabio’s involvement in presiding over the matter despite being directly implicated, suggesting a conflict of interest that could undermine the credibility of the Senate. This, according to Ologunagba, risks damaging the integrity of the Senate as an institution responsible for upholding the rule of law and transparency.

In conclusion, the PDP asserted that the apparent inclination of the APC leadership to cover up corrupt practices is eroding public trust in the Senate. The party reiterated support for Senator Ningi’s efforts to promote accountability and transparency within the polity. The PDP insisted that Akpabio should step aside to allow for an independent investigation into the allegations of budget padding and financial misconduct under his watch.

Source: Vanguard.

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