Senate Retaliates As Buhari Refuses To Accept Magu’s Rejection

In what could be described as a retaliation, the Nigerian Senate, on Tuesday, suspended the confirmation of the 27 resident electoral commissioners (RECs) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) nominated by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Recall that Buhari had written to the Senate, seeking the confirmation of appointment of 19 RECs and reappointment of 8 others.

The suspension, which follows a motion moved by Senator representing Delta north, Peter Nwaoboshi, was based on the refusal of the executive to accept the senate’s rejection of Ibrahim Magu as chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In their submissions, the federal lawmakers who contributed to the debate, wondered the relevance of their role if the Executive arm could allow Magu to function as the EFCC chair even after he was rejected.

The lawmakers further accused the executive of looking down on the legislature, stating that the principle of separation of powers was under threat and there was urgent need to put things in the right perspectives.

They therefore vowed not to confirm any of the nominees, until their decision on Magu was duly implemented by the President.