House committee chairman denies calling for Tinubu’s probe, urges responsible reporting

The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Navy, Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, has vehemently denied reports suggesting he called for a probe into President Bola Tinubu over subsidy removal savings. Describing the claims as mischievous, Gagdi emphasized that it goes against his character to use certain words or insinuate motives against an administration striving to uplift Nigerians.

In a statement released on Sunday, Gagdi clarified that during an interview with BBC Hausa Service, he highlighted the necessity of removing fuel subsidies, praising the President’s courage for taking this step. He expressed concern about the misleading nature of the media report, urging thoroughness in reporting, especially in translation.

Gagdi explained, “Nothing can be farther from the truth in that news report. I made the point that it was imperative for the fuel subsidy to go as it was only enriching a few privileged and rich individuals to the exclusion of the majority of Nigerians.”

During the interview, conducted in Hausa, Gagdi applauded the President for standing firm on subsidy removal despite pressure for a reversal. He acknowledged the savings from the subsidy and stressed the importance of prudent spending to benefit the majority of Nigerians.

Expressing disappointment with the sensational headline in the media, Gagdi labeled it as “irresponsible, reckless, and designed to pitch me against our hardworking, committed President and his Renewed Hope Agenda.” He affirmed his commitment to the APC, its aspirations, and President Tinubu’s objective to renew hope in the country.

Gagdi concluded by highlighting his respect for the President, noting that he voluntarily stepped down from the speakership race as a testament to his dedication to the party and its leadership.