The Senate has formed an ad hoc committee to probe allegations of drug trafficking made by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) against Senator Oyelola Ashiru.
Last week, during a debate on the bill to establish the National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation, Ashiru described the NDLEA as “the most corrupt and compromised agency.”
In response, the agency accused Ashiru of making disparaging remarks due to personal vendetta, suggesting that Ashiru was upset over the NDLEA’s past actions against individuals associated with him. The lawmaker challenged the agency to prosecute anyone found guilty of drug offences.
On Tuesday, Ashiru raised a motion under Order 42 of the Senate Rules that the NDLEA’s actions were retaliatory because of his contribution to a proposed bill on the establishment of a drug-related institute.
He asked the Senate to take action, adding that the accusations were an infringement on his person and privilege as a sitting senator.
The Senate then set up a panel headed by former Minority Leader Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe. The panel is expected to report back within one week.
While the Senate did not explicitly state that the NDLEA would be summoned, the panel will likely engage with senior officials from the anti-drug agency during its investigation.
The lawmakers earlier held a two-hour closed-door session to deliberate on the matter.
