Before the National Assembly’s inauguration on Tuesday, senators-elect supporting former Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari dismissed claims of his financial misconduct made by Sen. Godswill Akpabio‘s faction. Senator Clever Ikisikpo of the 7th Senate hinted on Monday that the Yari group was attempting to purchase votes.
We’re all against vote-buying. If you accept money to vote for someone, they won’t appreciate you. “My advice to my colleagues is to vote on Tuesday,” Ikisikpo said at a news conference while campaigning for Senator Akpabio.
Rejecting Akpabio’s claim, a member of the Yari camp termed it false and unfortunate, stating that it was a weak attempt to spread falsehood and slander. He emphasized that senators-elect are accomplished and independent and cannot be influenced. Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, a former Deputy Majority Leader and Bauchi Central Senator-elect, claims that 67 of his colleagues support Abdulaziz Yari’s bid for Senate President. Ningi, a PDP member, criticized those accusing Yari of buying his way into office and reminded them of how money played a significant role in their party primaries.
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Senator Ndume’s statement surprised me, as he should know that money is typically involved in politics, but it is not the most important factor in this campaign for our candidate. He says senators-elect view the allegation as a smear on their reputation, while another senator-elect confirms support for Yari is based on conviction, not money. Senators-elect dislike Akpabio as they believe he can’t lead the Senate, and due to his false claim that National Assembly members profit from NDDC contracts. He stated, “I left Sen.” I don’t trust Akpabio’s ability to respect and honor the legislature. Others share my doubts. We believe and have the right to our opinion.
Senator Akpabio accused NASS colleagues of benefiting from NDDC contracts without proof. “Unfortunate.” He accused the Akpabio camp of premature celebration over rumors in Abuja that Senator-elect Yari would be taken by security agents before Tuesday.” Yari defies pressure to withdraw from the race as APC supporters allegedly back him. It caused controversy before the National Assembly’s inauguration, aided by his court order preventing his arrest.
