By Abiola Olawale
The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio has emphasized the importance of togetherness and solidarity among his colleagues.
The Senate President made this call when Senator Abdul Ningi, the lawmaker who represents Bauchi Central senatorial district of Bauchi state at the Senate, resumed sitting today, Tuesday.
Akpabio, in his address, urged his fellow members to set aside past grievances and welcome Ningi, who has reaffirmed his commitment to upholding good conduct.
Akpabio said: “Distinguished Senator Abdul Ningi, you are a very resourceful person needed in the 10th Senate, electorates from Bauchi Central Senatorial District voted for you. You are welcome and let bygone be bygone.”
During his speech, the former Deputy Senate Leader expressed his gratitude to Akpabio for reinstating him despite not having completed his suspension.
Ningi also expressed his appreciation to his colleagues who stood by him during the suspension.
He said: “Mr President, Distinguished colleagues, I rise with profound humility to commend the Senate, its President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Senate leadership and the minority caucus for recalling me from suspension.
“I was in Turkey when the news got to me last week and I’m very much appreciative of the gesture.
“I’m happy to be back at home because the National Assembly is like home to me, having served as House leader, Deputy Senate Leader in the past and now as one of the Distinguished serving senators.
” I also thank my State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, the people of Bauchi State and other Nigerians who reached out to me in one way or the other during the period that has now been put behind “.
The New Diplomat reports that the Senate had resolved to recall Ningi from suspension. The resolution was a sequel to a motion moved by the Senate minority leader, Senator Abba Moro.
It would be recalled that Ningi was suspended by the Senate over allegations that the 2024 budget was padded.
He was suspended on March 12, 2024, after he alleged that the 2024 budget was padded with N3.7trn.
