Tensions escalated in the Nigerian Senate as Senate President Godswill Akpabio called for an inquiry into the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, after it accused Deputy Senate Leader Yisa Ashiru of drug-related offenses.
The NDLEA’s accusations, including a raid on Ashiru’s residence and the arrest of his aides, were made following Ashiru’s fierce criticism of the agency during a debate on a bill to establish the National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation.
The NDLEA, through its spokesperson Femi Babafemi, claimed Ashiru’s home in Ilorin, Kwara State, was being used as a drug hub, prompting a raid where drugs were allegedly recovered. Ashiru, however, dismissed the claims, describing them as a retaliatory attack due to his critique of the agency, calling their accusations “mischievous and misleading.”
Akpabio, speaking at the Senate plenary, criticized the timing of the allegations and expressed disbelief over the NDLEA’s claims. “If they believed he was involved in drugs, why wait until now, when he’s 68?” he questioned. He further reminded the Senate that statements made during Senate debates are protected by legislative immunity.
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The Senate moved swiftly to establish a six-member ad hoc committee, chaired by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, (APGA, Abia South), with Kaka Shehu (APC, Borno Central), Ireti Kingibe (LP, FCT), Afolabi Salisu (APC, Ogun Central), Ede Dafinone (APC, Delta Central), and Lawal Usman (PDP, Kaduna Central) as members to investigate the matter and invite the NDLEA to justify its claims. Akpabio stressed the need for the NDLEA to substantiate its allegations or face repercussions, stating, “Injury to one is injury to all.”
Ashiru, in his defense, emphasized his clean record, stating, “I am 68 years old and cannot even identify drugs.” He also called the allegations an attempt to stifle the Senate’s free debate and tarnish his reputation.
The probe is expected to bring clarity to the escalating rift between the Senate and the NDLEA, as both sides stand firm in their positions.
Credible News.ng
