The Senate has formed a committee to investigate allegations made by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) against Senator Ashiru. This decision came after Ashiru delivered a “personal explanation” under Order 42 of the Senate rules, where he claimed that his privileges had been violated by the NDLEA. The agency alleged that Ashiru’s residence in Ilorin, Kwara State, was searched, resulting in the seizure of drugs.
Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa, the NDLEA Chairman, made this accusation during a press briefing on Monday. He was represented by Mr. Femi Babafemi, the agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, who also stated that three of Ashiru’s aides were arrested and subsequently prosecuted, with one receiving a jail sentence in June of this year.
Last week, Senator Ashiru voiced accusations of corruption and compromise against the NDLEA during a Senate session. On Tuesday, while seeking the Senate’s protection, he characterized the NDLEA’s claims as malicious, asserting that they aimed to tarnish his reputation and hinder his contributions in Senate discussions.
“I am now 68 years old. I can confidently say that I do not consume alcohol or drugs, and I have never engaged with cannabis,” Ashiru stated emphatically.
In response, Senate President Godswill Akpabio expressed his support for Ashiru, stating, “Injury to one is injury to all.” Akpabio affirmed that statements made in the Senate are protected by privilege and immunity, emphasizing the senator’s integrity.
Furthermore, Akpabio directed the newly established ad hoc committee to summon the NDLEA leadership to justify the allegations against Ashiru. He warned that failure to provide adequate justification would result in severe repercussions for the NDLEA.
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