Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, representing Bauchi Central Senatorial District, sparked drama in the Nigerian Senate on Thursday, June 11, 2026, when he arrived at the chamber dressed in full traditional regalia.
The lawmaker made a dramatic entrance carrying a spear and other traditional items, drawing immediate attention and uproar from his colleagues.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio asked him to remove the spear and other items from the chamber.
Senator Ningi declined to hand them over to the Sergeant-at-Arms, stating, “I don’t want the Sergeant-at-Arms; I will take it away myself.”
In response, Akpabio cautioned other senators, particularly addressing Senator Abaribe against getting close the Ningi.
“Senator Abaribe, be very careful so that your body does not touch that instrument,” Akpabio said.
He then thanked Ningi, saying, “Thank you for being a gentleman. And even the one on your neck that looks like a snake, don’t come back with it.”
Explaining the significance of his attire, Senator Ningi said the regalia was part of his cultural duty.
“This regalia is our tradition. I am now a ‘Pompano,’ meaning the spokesperson of the Bachama Kingdom. On their behalf, I see it as an honour.
“Many people thought this was a joke — no, it is not a joke. This is Africa, this is Nigeria. I have been in this National Assembly for close to 19 years and I cannot on my own violate the regulations of the Senate,” Ningi said.
He assured his colleagues that the items were not dangerous.