Senator Barau Jibrin Threatens Legal Action Over Bribery Allegations
Senator Barau Jibrin, the Deputy President of the Senate, has raised serious concerns over recent allegations that he and others accepted a $10 million bribe to block the confirmation of Abdullahi Garba Ramat as Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). The accusations were made by certain individuals who claimed to be members of the defunct Gawuna Campaign Organisation. According to these claims, the bribe was intended to prevent Ramat’s appointment.
In response, the Tinubu/Barau Support Groups Coalition strongly dismissed the allegations as “false, malicious, and politically motivated.” During a press conference, the coalition’s Convener, Hafiz Sani Liman, emphasized that the claims were an attempt to tarnish Senator Barau’s reputation and undermine his commitment to good governance and national development.
Liman highlighted that Senator Barau has consistently supported the appointment of Kano indigenes to federal positions and has sponsored various bills aimed at promoting development in the region. He also criticized the joint press conference held by Hon. Muhammadu Badaru Umar and Alwan Hassan, describing it as filled with lies, mischief, misinformation, and fabrication.
“It is mischievous and laughable to suggest that Senator Barau is scheming to subvert the confirmation process,” Liman stated. He further noted that the Senate Committee on Power, chaired by Senator Enyinnaya Harcourt Abaribe, has already carried out the screening of Ramat, and the report is expected to be presented on the Senate floor soon.
The Coalition has urged Nigerians, especially those from Kano, to disregard the allegations and recognize them as a desperate attempt to discredit Senator Barau. Liman reiterated that Senator Barau remains a beacon of unity, integrity, and progress in Nigeria’s political landscape.
“No amount of blackmail or propaganda can distract him from his constitutional responsibilities or his mission to advance the welfare of the people of Kano North and the Nigerian nation at large.”
Key Points from the Press Conference
- Hafiz Sani Liman, Convener of the Tinubu/Barau Support Groups Coalition, addressed the press conference and denounced the allegations as false and politically motivated.
- Liman emphasized that Senator Barau has a history of supporting Kano indigenes in federal positions and promoting regional development through legislation.
- The press conference involving Hon. Muhammadu Badaru Umar and Alwan Hassan was described as filled with lies and misinformation.
- The Senate Committee on Power, led by Senator Enyinnaya Harcourt Abaribe, has completed the screening of Abdullahi Garba Ramat, with the report expected to be presented soon.
Calls for Public Awareness
The Coalition has called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and not be swayed by the allegations. They believe that the claims are part of a broader effort to undermine Senator Barau’s efforts to promote good governance and national development. Liman stressed that the senator’s dedication to his duties remains unwavering, regardless of the challenges faced.
The Coalition continues to encourage public support for Senator Barau, highlighting his role as a leader who prioritizes the interests of the people of Kano North and the entire Nigerian nation.
Conclusion
As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on the integrity and commitment of Senator Barau Jibrin. The allegations against him have been met with strong opposition from his supporters, who believe that the accusations are baseless and aimed at disrupting his work for the betterment of the country.