Congressional Representatives Seek Investigation of NILDS DG Amid Allegations of Partisan Political Activities

Juliet Akoje in Abuja.

The House of Representatives has decided to investigate claims that the Director‑General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Professor Abubakar Sulaiman, engaged in partisan political activities while holding a public office.

The resolution was adopted during a plenary session on Thursday, following a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Hon. Salisu Yusuf and 12 other lawmakers.

The motion emphasized the importance of maintaining the political neutrality of public institutions and ensuring that public officers comply with constitutional and legal rules that limit their participation in electoral activities.

Hon. Yusuf led the discussion, alleging that Professor Sulaiman, who heads the National Assembly’s research and policy institute, took part in the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election in Kwara State while still serving as NILDS Director‑General.

According to the lawmaker, publicly available documents show that the NILDS chief purchased nomination forms, passed the party’s screening process, and contested the APC governorship primaries, reportedly receiving 1,722 votes.

Yusuf also highlighted a petition from the Association of Legislative Drafting and Advocacy Practitioners, which accuses the Director‑General of abusing his office and violating laws that govern the conduct of public officials.

The lawmaker warned that Professor Sulaiman allegedly did not resign from his appointment before entering the political contest, contrary to the Code of Conduct for Public Officers and a presidential directive that requires all public officials seeking elective positions to resign on or before March 31, 2026.

He cautioned that ignoring the issue could set a dangerous precedent, undermining discipline and accountability within the public service, especially in agencies under the National Assembly.

After deliberation, the House instructed its Committee on Legislative Library, Research and Documentation to conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations and to submit its findings within one week.