The Senate has granted pardon to and reinstated Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi following a 77-day suspension period. It is to be noted that Senator Ningi's suspension took effect on March 12, 2024.

The process of reinstatement was set in motion on Tuesday, initiated by a motion put forth by Deputy Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro, who expressed remorse on behalf of the suspended senator. Moro pledged to take full responsibility for Ningi's actions, acknowledging the seriousness of the suspension. The conduct of the senator during the period of suspension has been a subject of scrutiny and discussion within the legislative body.

READ ASLO: Senate Suspends Ningi For Three Months Over Budget Padding Claims

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, announced the unconditional recall of Ningi following a brief plea by certain lawmakers. Akpabio underscored the senator's value and described him as an esteemed member of the Senate, stressing that the decision to recall Ningi transcends religious and ethnic boundaries. Ningi's recall comes approximately two weeks before the conclusion of his three-month suspension, which was slated to end on June 12, 2024.

It is pertinent to recall that the Senate suspended Ningi over allegations of N3.7 trillion padding of the 2024 Budget back in March. Ningi, representing the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from Bauchi Central Senatorial District, was suspended for a period of three months following a prolonged and contentious session in the red chamber.