Senator Shehu Sani has shed light on the repercussions faced by Bauchi Central Senator Abdul Ningi following his three-month suspension by the Senate. The suspension was imposed after Ningi, who also serves as Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum, made allegations of budget padding.

According to a post shared on Sani’s official social media handle, the suspended lawmaker will be deprived of access to his office and will not receive any remuneration until the suspension is lifted. Additionally, he will be barred from attending plenary sessions, committee meetings, and participating in oversight functions. The suspension also dictates that Ningi should not be present within the premises of the National Assembly.

Sani expressed his concern over the severe punishment, highlighting how it discourages lawmakers, even from opposition parties, from speaking out on important matters. He recalled his own experience, mentioning that when he disclosed the salaries and running costs of lawmakers in the past, it was the then-Senate president who prevented him from facing suspension. He concluded by stating that excessive vocalization can have consequences, even for those in opposition.