The House of Representatives on Thursday unveiled plans to investigate a petition on the alleged involvement of the Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Professor Abubakar Sulaiman, in partisan politics while holding public office.

The resolution was passed following the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Hon. Salisu Yusuf and 12 others, citing the need to preserve the political neutrality of public institutions and ensure compliance with constitutional provisions guiding public officers’ participation in electoral processes.

In his lead debate, Hon. Yusuf alleged that Professor Sulaiman, while serving as head of the National Assembly’s research institute, participated in the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries in Kwara State.

According to him, documentary evidence in the public domain indicated that the NILDS helmsman purchased nomination forms, took part in screening, and contested in the primaries, where he reportedly scored 1,722 votes.

Hon. Yusuf also referenced a petition submitted by the Association of Legislative Drafting and Advocacy Practitioners, accusing the Director-General of abuse of office and failure to comply with relevant laws.

He expressed concern that Sulaiman did not resign from his position before participating in the political process, as required by the Code of Conduct for Public Officers and a presidential directive mandating resignation by March 31, 2026, for any public official seeking elective office.

He argued that failure to address the issue could set a “dangerous precedent” and undermine discipline within the public service, particularly in agencies under the National Assembly.

To this end, the House mandated its Committee on Legislative Library, Research and Documentation to investigate the matter and report back within one week. (Nigerian Tribune)

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