Support Groups Dismiss Bribery and Sabotage Claims By Defunct Gawuna Campaign Organization as Politically Motivated

The All Tinubu and Barau Support Groups Coalition has strongly condemned what it described as “false, malicious, and politically motivated” allegations made against the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, CFR, by the defunct Gawuna Campaign Organisation over the confirmation of Abdullahi Garba Ramat as Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

Addressing journalists at a press conference in Kano, the Convener and Director General of the Coalition, Comrade Hafizu Sani Liman (FIPMA), said the accusations were intended to tarnish Senator Barau’s image and mislead the public.

“The claims made by the Gawuna Campaign Organisation are nothing but lies, mischief, and deliberate misinformation aimed at discrediting Senator Barau Jibrin,” Liman stated.

He noted that under Nigeria’s constitution, the appointment of public officials such as the NERC Chairman is the exclusive prerogative of the President, and the Senate only plays a confirmatory role.

According to Liman, Senator Barau has been actively lobbying his colleagues to ensure a smooth confirmation process for Engr. Ramat, contrary to claims that he was working to undermine it.

“It is laughable and mischievous to suggest that the Deputy Senate President is plotting to subvert the process. The screening has been completed by the Senate Committee on Power chaired by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, and the report is yet to be presented before the full Senate,” he added.

The Coalition also dismissed as “baseless and defamatory” the allegations that Senator Barau and Senate President Godswill Akpabio received a $10 million bribe to block Ramat’s confirmation, revealing that legal action would be taken against those behind the claims.

“We have instructed our lawyers to commence legal proceedings against these peddlers of falsehood. Their actions are a calculated attempt to sow discord and damage reputations,” Liman said.

The Coalition urged Nigerians, particularly the people of Kano, to disregard the allegations, describing them as the handiwork of “frustrated political actors desperate for relevance.”

Highlighting Senator Barau’s track record, Liman said the Deputy Senate President has been instrumental in securing federal appointments for many Kano indigenes, including his sponsorship of the bill establishing the North-West Development Commission, and his advocacy for employment opportunities for youths across the state.

“Senator Barau Jibrin remains a beacon of unity, integrity, and progress. No amount of propaganda will distract him from his mission to serve Kano and Nigeria with dedication,” the statement concluded.