Tension in Niger state over cleric’s sermon on corruption

– There is tension in Niger state House of Assembly following allegations by an imam of the new secretariat Jumuat Mosque, Sheikh Abubakar Abu- Sumaiya

– The cleric alleged that the Niger state governor, had offered over N8m worth of vehicles to each member of the state assembly for easy passage of the 2016 appropriation bill

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File photo of Governor Abubakar Sani Bello of Niger state.

There is tension in Niger state following allegations by an imam of the new secretariat Jumuat Mosque, Sheikh Abubakar Abu- Sumaiya, that the state assembly members were bending state government rules to buy them exotic cars, Leadership reports.

Sheikh Sumaiya on Friday, March 18, in his sermon had  alleged that the Niger state governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello had offered over N8m worth of vehicles to each member of the state assembly for easy passage of the 2016 appropriation bill but was reportedly turned down by members who demanded  for N25m worth of vehicles instead.

The cleric had called on the members in his sermon to fear God and pass the budget without requesting anything from the governor.

In a reaction to the allegations, Abdulmalik Madaki Bosso representing Bosso, said such allegations were unfounded.

“I am very surprise to hear this from the Imam who I don’t know his source of information, it is a very huge  allegation that needs clarification from him. We have never requested for any vehicle or money for the passage of  the 2016 budget,” he said.

He however urged the people of the state to disregard the allegation which he added is capable of tarnishing the image of the members and the entire 8th legislative session.

Meanwhile, the Taraba state House of Assembly has re-elected the former speaker, Peter Abel Diah as its new speaker. He was elected following the resignation of Hon. Mark Bako Useni, the former speaker.

Useni tendered his resignation letter during the plenary session of the assembly on Thursday, March 17, giving personal reasons for his action.