LunagisthubSenate Denies $10 Million Bribery Allegation
The Nigerian Senate has vehemently denied allegations that its leadership accepted a $10 million bribe to block President Bola Tinubu’s nominee for Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Abdullahi Ramat. The allegation was made by Alwan Hassan, a former Special Adviser to ex-Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.
In a statement, Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu described the claim as “baseless” and explained that the decision to step down Ramat’s screening was due to “public and private complaints” lodged against the nominee. Adaramodu emphasized that the Senate would not be pressured into confirming any appointee under a cloud of public concern.
Ramat’s confirmation has been suspended pending further legislative and public review. The Senate has previously stepped down nominees following adverse petitions, and it appears that the chamber is taking a cautious approach in this case.
The Senate’s investigation into Ramat’s suitability will continue, and the outcome will determine whether he will be confirmed as the Chairman of NERC. The denial of the bribery allegation by the Senate is seen as an effort to maintain transparency and uphold the integrity of the confirmation process .
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