The Nigerian Senate has initiated an investigation into drug-related allegations made by the NDLEA against an unnamed lawmaker. Learn more about the ongoing probe and its potential implications for Nigerian politics.
The Senate has formed a six-member ad-hoc committee to investigate the recent allegations against Sen. Ashiru Oyelola, who represents Kwara South.
The committee is likely to call upon the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for an explanation regarding the recent allegations.
It should be remembered that a few days ago, the NDLEA claimed to have raided Senator Ashiru’s residence in Ilorin, Kwara State, where they reportedly discovered illicit drugs.
The accusation came after Senator Ashiru’s remarks in the Senate on October 15, during a debate concerning the Bill to establish the National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation. In his speech, the 68-year-old senator referred to NDLEA as “the most corrupt and compromised agency.”
During the plenary, Senator Ashiru invoked order 42 to address allegations made by the NDLEA in their October 21 press statement, characterizing them as an act of witch-hunting.
He pointed out that the agency targeted him with personal attacks and undermined his right as a senator to freely participate in Senate debates.
He also mentioned that the agency has resorted to deception and manipulation, interpreting it as an effort to intimidate the Senate into relinquishing its rights to freely discuss matters of national interest and hear diverse opinions on the floor.
The Senate President, while expressing skepticism about the timing of the agency’s allegations, made it clear that he would not rush to any conclusions.
In a voice vote, the lawmakers decided to take appropriate actions within one week based on the recommendations submitted by the newly established ad-hoc committee.
