The House of Representatives has launched an investigation into the Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman, over allegations of involvement in partisan politics while holding public office.
The probe followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved during Thursday’s plenary by Katsina lawmaker Salisu Yusuf and 12 other lawmakers.
Leading the debate, Yusuf alleged that Sulaiman participated in the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary process in Kwara State while still serving as Director-General of NILDS.
According to the lawmaker, publicly available information showed that Sulaiman purchased nomination forms, underwent screening, and contested in the primary election, where he reportedly secured 1,722 votes.
Yusuf argued that the development raised concerns over compliance with public service regulations and the political neutrality expected of officials heading sensitive public institutions.
He also referenced a petition submitted by the Association of Legislative Drafting and Advocacy Practitioners, which accused the NILDS boss of abuse of office and violating rules guiding public officers seeking elective positions.
The lawmakers noted that existing regulations, including provisions of the Code of Conduct for Public Officers and a presidential directive issued earlier in 2026, required political appointees seeking elective office to resign before participating in party primaries.
They warned that allowing senior public officials to openly engage in partisan politics while remaining in office could undermine discipline within the public service and weaken public confidence in non-partisan institutions.
Following the debate, the House mandated its Committee on Legislative Library, Research and Documentation to investigate the allegations and submit its findings within one week.
The session was presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
NILDS is a research and policy institution established to support the National Assembly through legislative drafting, policy analysis, training, and democratic governance initiatives.
