The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged Senate President Godswill Akpabio to temporarily step aside, allowing for an independent investigation into the alleged inclusion of N3.7 trillion worth of untraceable projects in the 2024 budget.

The PDP criticised Akpabio for suspending Senator Abdul Ningi without conducting a thorough investigation into the accusations of budget padding. Senator Ningi, representing Bauchi Central, had raised concerns about the alleged padding of the 2024 budget amounting to N3.7 trillion.

In response, the PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, expressed support for the suspended senator and called for Akpabio’s temporary removal to facilitate an impartial inquiry. Ologunagba questioned why the Senate leadership, affiliated with the All Progressives Congress (APC), did not refer the matter to the appropriate Senate Standing Committee for an open investigation, in line with the Senate’s rules. The PDP spokesperson also criticized Akpabio for presiding over the issue, stating that it could further tarnish the reputation of the Senate.

Ologunagba highlighted the seriousness of the allegations, which involve potential misconduct and betrayal of public trust, and emphasized the need for transparency and accountability. The PDP expressed concern that the Senate’s handling of the situation could be perceived as an attempt to cover up wrongdoing, resulting in a loss of public confidence. The suspension of Senator Ningi was criticised as inadequate to address the allegations of budget padding.

The PDP reiterated its support for Senator Ningi’s efforts to promote integrity and accountability in the political arena. The party called for a fair investigation into the budget padding allegations and emphasized the importance of upholding the highest standards of lawmaking and ethical conduct within the Senate.