CISLAC Condemns Ningi’s Suspension as an Attack on Freedom of Expression

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC)/Transparency International in Nigeria (TI-Nigeria) has expressed concern over the recent suspension of Senator Abdul Ningi by the Senate, calling it an attack on freedom of expression.

The suspension was initiated after Ningi raised concerns and allegations of N3 trillion budget padding in the 2024 Appropriation Act.

In a statement released on Wednesday, CISLAC Executive Director, Mallam Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, highlighted the importance of freedom of expression and opinion in preserving democratic culture, values, and principles in Nigeria.

He cited constitutional provisions and international human rights instruments that guarantee this right, including Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria, Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and Article 19 (2) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, 1966.

Rafsanjani argued that the suspension of a Senator who represents an entire Senatorial district is a public demonstration of an unguarded culture of silencing, insensitivity, disrespect, and marginalization of the people, and an act of dictatorship.

He also pointed out that the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria does not provide the Senate with the power to suspend a Member of the National Assembly, making the suspension unjust.

As the controversy surrounding Senator Ningi’s suspension continues, it remains to be seen how the Senate will respond to the concerns raised by CISLAC and other advocates for freedom of expression and the rule of law in Nigeria.