The House of Representatives has initiated an investigation into Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman, Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), following claims that he actively participated in partisan politics while holding public office.
The probe stems from a motion of urgent public importance moved on Thursday by Hon. Salisu Yusuf (Katsina State) and 12 other lawmakers. They expressed concerns over potential breaches of public service rules and the requirement for political neutrality in sensitive institutions.
During the debate, Yusuf alleged that Sulaiman took part in the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary in Kwara State without resigning from his NILDS position. According to the lawmaker, available evidence shows that Sulaiman purchased nomination forms, underwent screening, and contested the primary, reportedly securing 1,722 votes.
The motion highlighted a petition from the Association of Legislative Drafting and Advocacy Practitioners, which accused the NILDS boss of abuse of office and non-compliance with laws regulating public officers. Lawmakers noted that Sulaiman did not resign despite the Code of Conduct for Public Officers and a presidential directive requiring officials seeking elective positions to step down by March 31, 2026.
Supporters of the motion warned that allowing such actions could undermine public service discipline, erode trust in democratic institutions, and create a dangerous precedent for other public agencies.
NILDS, established to support the National Assembly with research, policy analysis, legislative drafting, training, and capacity building, is expected to remain strictly non-partisan. Its Director-General plays a key role in strengthening legislative practice and democratic governance in Nigeria.
After discussions, the House adopted the motion through a voice vote, presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas. It directed the Committee on Legislative Library, Research and Documentation to thoroughly investigate the allegations and report back within one week.
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