By Nuel Suji – The Senate on Tuesday reaffirmed its decision rejecting the nomination of the acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu, saying it remains the official position.
The Senate outburst is coming against the backdrop of reports credited to its Majority Leader, Ali Ndume who said the Red Chamber merely stepped down Mr. Magu’s screening until the question of integrity raised in the security report against him is resolved.
The Senate had last Thursday turned down President Muhammadu Buhari’s request to Mr. Magu as the substantive Chairman of the anti-corruption agency.
It cited “security report” which allegedly raised integrity question, after finding the acting EFCC Boss of benefiting from proceed of corruption.
But in a counter reaction, Chairman Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, Abdullahi Sabi, said on Tuesday, that the Senate’s decision was that Mr. Magu had been rejected and that its decision had already been communicated to Mr. President.
“This is the official position of the Senate.Our votes and proceedings are the official records of what transpired in the chamber. You remember on that crucial date we had the closed session where we looked at the issues,” Mr. Sabi to Senate Correspondents.
“Now, I had to come here and brief you, with the effect that ‘the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is announcing to the general public that in view of the security report available to us, we are unable to proceed and confirm the nominee to the office of the executive chairman of EFCC, Mr Ibrahim Magu,’ and I said accordingly ‘the Senate hereby rejects the said nomination and returns the nomination to Mr. President for further action.’
“I am quoting myself verbatim as I had said it and as the official spokesperson of the Senate.
“Media reports have emerged especially taken from the interview granted by our leader, Senator Ali Ndume as may be depending on how people have read it. I have not seen it but the calls from colleagues, text messages meant that we have to clarify issues.
“For the record, I am the official spokesman of the Senate. I am not speaking for myself, I am speaking for the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the capacity I was so designated.
“I am convinced beyond reasonable doubt, members of this very esteemed Press Corps had that statement recorded that day. My press statement also was recorded that day. So, for me that is the official position of the Senate and it remains the only official position of the Senate and
He faulted Mr. Ndume comments on the matter saying he job as majority leader of the Senate is clearly defined and should not conflict with his as the official spokesperson of the Senate.
“I am saying so with all emphasis. What I said on behalf of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria remains the only official statement of the Senate,” he added.
