Reps order probe of NILDS DG over Kwara primary allegation

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By Gift ChapiOdekina, Abuja

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The House of Representatives on Thursday ordered an investigation into the Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman, over allegations of participation in partisan political activities while still in office.

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The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Salisu Yusuf (Mashi/Dutsi Federal Constituency, Katsina State) and 12 other lawmakers.

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Presenting the motion at plenary, Yusuf alleged that Sulaiman took part in the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary in Kwara State without resigning his position as NILDS DG.

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He said available records showed that the NILDS boss purchased nomination forms, underwent screening, and contested in the primary election, where he reportedly polled 1,722 votes.

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Yusuf argued that the development raised concerns about compliance with public service rules and the political neutrality expected of heads of sensitive government institutions.

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He noted that NILDS was established as a non-partisan body to support legislative research, policy development, and capacity building for the National Assembly and other democratic institutions.

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The lawmaker also said the House received a petition from the Association of Legislative Drafting and Advocacy Practitioners, accusing the DG of abuse of office and violation of public service regulations.

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He added that the allegations, if proven, could amount to a breach of the Code of Conduct for Public Officers and relevant rules guiding political participation by public officials.

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Some lawmakers supporting the motion warned that failure to address the issue could weaken discipline in the public service and erode public confidence in government institutions.

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They also cautioned that allowing senior public officials to openly participate in party primaries while still in office could set a dangerous precedent.

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After deliberations, the House mandated its Committee on Legislative Library, Research and Documentation to investigate the allegations and report back within one week.

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The motion was adopted via a voice vote presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.

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The investigation comes amid rising political activity ahead of the 2027 general elections, with increasing scrutiny of public officials seeking elective positions while still in office.

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