The House of Representatives has commenced a probe into allegations that the Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman, engaged in political activities while still occupying a public office.
The investigation was triggered by a motion presented by Katsina lawmaker Salisu Yusuf and supported by 12 other lawmakers during Thursday’s plenary.
Raising the issue, Yusuf claimed that Sulaiman took part in the All Progressives Congress governorship primary in Kwara State despite remaining in his position as head of NILDS.
He said, “Evidence already in the public domain showed that the NILDS boss purchased nomination forms, underwent screening and contested in the primary election, where he reportedly secured 1,722 votes.”
The lawmakers argued that the allegation has sparked concerns because NILDS is expected to remain politically neutral in carrying out its responsibilities to the National Assembly and other democratic institutions.
Yusuf further informed the House that a petition from the Association of Legislative Drafting and Advocacy Practitioners accused the NILDS boss of breaching public service regulations and misusing his office.
He stated that the allegations, “if proven, would amount to a violation of provisions regulating the conduct of public servants seeking elective political office.”
According to the lawmakers, Sulaiman allegedly failed to resign before joining the governorship race, despite rules guiding public officials who wish to seek elective positions.
They warned that overlooking such actions could weaken accountability within the public service and undermine confidence in institutions expected to operate without political bias.
The lawmakers also cautioned that permitting senior officials to participate in party primaries while remaining in office could create a “dangerous precedent” across government agencies.
Following deliberations, the House directed its Committee on Legislative Library, Research and Documentation to investigate the allegations and submit its report within one week.
The matter comes at a time when political activities are beginning to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 elections, with several public office holders reportedly showing interest in elective positions across the country.