By Gift ChapiOdekina, Abuja
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.
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.
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.
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.
Yusuf argued that the development raised concerns about compliance with public service rules and the political neutrality expected of heads of sensitive government institutions.
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.
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.
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.
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.
They also cautioned that allowing senior public officials to openly participate in party primaries while still in office could set a dangerous precedent.
After deliberations, the House mandated its Committee on Legislative Library, Research and Documentation to investigate the allegations and report back within one week.
The motion was adopted via a voice vote presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
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.
