‘I don’t have the power to reverse Ndume’s suspension,’ Senate President says

monjola sotubo

April 3, 2017 4:08 PM

Ndume was suspended on Wednesday, March 29, over a petition raised against Saraki and Senator Dino Melaye.

Senate President, Bukola Saraki

Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has said that he has no power to reverse the suspension of former Senate leader,

Ndume was suspended on Wednesday, March 29, over a petition raised against Saraki and Senator Dino Melaye.

“We should try and understand how the parliament works. I wish I had such powers these powers you give me I wish I had them. The President or Speaker is first among equals they are just presiding officers but unfortunately you know the legislative arm is the youngest people don’t understand, people give us this powers that we have, decisions that are taken in plenary is decision of all but I have a role to be able to convey the message," Saraki said when asked about Ndume’s suspension while speaking with journalists at the Presidential Villa on Monday, April 3.

Ndume had urged the Senate to probe allegations that Saraki’s vehicle was seized by customs officers because it was cleared with fake documents.

He also called on the Senate to investigate reports that Melaye did not graduate from the Ahmadu Bello University as claimed.

However, both Melaye and Saraki were cleared by the Senate committee on ethics and privileges which recommended Ndume’s suspension.

ALSO READ: ‘Senator Ndume’s suspension is the height of illegality,’ Falana says

Melaye, on Friday, March 31, urged Ndume to show remorse and apologize to the Senate so Saraki could persuade other senators to either reduce his punishment or forgive him.

monjola sotubo