Fifth term lawmaker, Ali Ndume, dismisses citizens’ protest against SUV purchase for NASS members

Fifth term lawmaker, Ali Ndume, dismisses citizens’ protest against SUV purchase for NASS members

Senator Ali Ndume of Borno South has come forward to justify the acquisition of sports utility vehicles (SUVs) for National Assembly members, asserting that such a practice is not unprecedented.

In recent times, the National Assembly has faced intense public scrutiny following revelations that each of the 469 legislators would receive an SUV with a price tag of N160 million.

Senator Ndume contends that this development is not without precedent, emphasizing that the provision of official vehicles for public servants is a longstanding tradition.

“Supplying vehicles to public or civil servants is not a new phenomenon. The pertinent questions are, ‘What are the implications? What is the cost, and what viable alternatives exist?'” Senator Ndume explained during his appearance on the current affairs program “Sunday Politics” on Channels Television.

While he acknowledges the public’s right to question the procurement of these vehicles, particularly in light of Nigeria’s post-petrol subsidy era, Senator Ndume argues that these cars are essential for official duties.

“Personally, I am here to serve, and in serving the people, my primary constitutional role is oversight and legislation,” Senator Ndume added. “To effectively carry out these responsibilities, I require a vehicle that facilitates efficiency. This, in my view, is the rationale behind procuring these vehicles.”

Senator Ndume also pointed out that it is customary for high-ranking public servants, such as ministers and heads of government agencies, to be provided with official vehicles.

Nevertheless, Senator Ndume highlighted that the costs associated with acquiring such vehicles have been steadily increasing over the years.

Shifting his focus, he has called upon President Bola Tinubu to enact an executive order addressing unexplained wealth.

“I have attempted on numerous occasions to introduce legislation concerning unexplained wealth, but there were various obstacles,” shared Senator Ndume, who serves as the Senate Chief Whip. “I believe the most effective way to address this issue is for the bill to originate from the executive branch, or alternatively, the current president should issue an executive order on unexplained wealth in the interim.”