Senate Denies Bribery Allegations in Ramat’s Nomination
The Senate has firmly rejected allegations that its leadership accepted a $10 million bribe to block the confirmation of Abdullahi Ramat as the Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). The claim, made by Alwan Hassan, a former Special Adviser to ex-Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, has stirred significant debate within political circles, raising concerns about transparency in the appointment process for regulatory roles in the power sector.
Ramat’s nomination remains on hold while further legislative and public reviews are conducted. In response to the allegations, the Senate spokesperson, Yemi Adaramodu, issued a statement in Abuja on Friday, calling the claims “baseless.” According to Adaramodu, the decision to step down Ramat’s nomination was based on “public and private complaints” against the nominee, not any financial incentives.
Adaramodu emphasized that the Red Chamber could not ignore the petitions and concerns raised regarding the nominee’s suitability. He noted that the Senate had previously withdrawn other nominees due to adverse public feedback, highlighting the legislature’s commitment to maintaining integrity in appointments.
“Many nominees have stepped down due to such public outcry. The case of Mr. Ramat is not an exception,” Adaramodu stated.
He also accused Hassan of attempting to blackmail the Senate, describing the allegations as “ludicrous.” Adaramodu claimed that Hassan suggested the Senate had been compromised by unnamed individuals to reject Ramat’s nomination.
“For the unsuspecting public not to be persuaded by the satanic verses, the Senate wishes to state that Mr. Garba Ramat has a baggage of public and private complaints against his nomination,” he added.
Adaramodu stressed that the National Assembly would protect its integrity and warned that Hassan would be required in court to provide evidence of the alleged bribe. He said the Senate would take legal action to ensure that unfounded allegations do not undermine the institution.
“No one can drag the institution of the National Assembly into public opprobrium with unfathomable allegations in order to arm-twist the legislature. The Senate will definitely engage Mr. Alwan in court to provide Nigerians with proof of his assertions,” Adaramodu said.
He further clarified that lawmakers had no prior personal dealings with Ramat. According to Adaramodu, the Senate had no prior knowledge of or contact with the nominee until his nomination was submitted for screening.
“We didn’t know and had no prior encounter with Ramat until his nomination came for screening. The Senate is bound to listen to and consider any issues raised against him by the people he was nominated to serve,” he added.
Key Points Summary
- Allegation Rejected: The Senate denied claims of accepting a $10 million bribe to block Abdullahi Ramat’s confirmation.
- Public Complaints: The decision to withdraw Ramat’s nomination was based on public and private complaints, not financial motives.
- Legal Action Threatened: The Senate warned that Hassan would face legal consequences if he fails to provide evidence for his allegations.
- No Prior Contact: Adaramodu stated that lawmakers had no prior interactions with Ramat before his nomination.
- Commitment to Integrity: The Senate emphasized its dedication to transparency and accountability in the appointment process.