The Senate has established an ad hoc committee to investigate drug trafficking charges brought by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) against Senator Oyelola Ashiru.
During a discussion on the bill to establish the National Institute for Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation last week, Ashiru branded the NDLEA as “the most corrupt and compromised agency.”
In response, the agency accused Ashiru of making disparaging remarks out of personal vendetta, implying that he was disgruntled over the NDLEA’s previous operations against those affiliated with him. The congressman challenged the government to prosecute anyone found guilty of a narcotics offense.
On Tuesday, Ashiru raised a motion under Order 42 of the Senate Rules that the NDLEA’s actions were retaliatory because of his contribution to a proposed bill on the establishment of a drug-related institute.
He asked the Senate to take action, adding that the accusations were an infringement on his person and privilege as a sitting senator.
The Senate then set up a panel headed by former Minority Leader Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe. The panel is expected to report back within one week.
While the Senate did not explicitly state that the NDLEA would be summoned, the panel will likely engage with senior officials from the anti-drug agency during its investigation.
The lawmakers earlier held a two-hour closed-door session to deliberate on the matter.