Senator Nuhu Aliyu on Wednes day alleged that some members of the National Assembly are involved in advance fee fraud, otherwise known as “419”.
“419” refers to Section 419 of the Criminal Code which relates to fraud and fraud-related crimes.
Aliyu, a former Deputy Inspector-General of Police, made the allegation while contributing to a motion on “Direction and Tempo of the War on Corruption’’.
“In the National Assembly, we still have 419 members,’’ he said, adding: “the police faced a very hopeless situation in combating fraud cases until the EFCC Act was enacted.’’
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that Aliyu’s speech was interrupted by Sen. Ayogu Eze (PDP-Enugu) who raised Order 15 of the Senate Rule.
Eze, supported by some senators, said that Aliyu’s statement alleging that fraudsters existed in the National Assembly had breached his privilege as a senator.
“The statement by Aliyu has impugned the integrity of members of National Assembly.
“We must defend our honour and integrity, as I cannot be part of a National Assembly that comprises ‘419’ members. Aliyu should name the people involved in ‘419’ activities or withdraw the statement,’’he said.
When called upon by the Senate President, Mr. David Mark, to react to Eze’s point of order, Aliyu categorically said that he would not withdraw the statement. Mark, however, directed the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges to investigate Aliyu’s allegations. The committee was given two weeks to report back to the Senate.
Nigerian Tribune
Thursday, January 24, 2008
