The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Navy, Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, has described reports in some sections of the media that he called for a probe of President Bola Tinubu over subsidy removal savings as mischievous.
He noted that it is not in his character to use certain words or impute any motive concerning this administration that is working to elevate Nigerians out of poverty and make things work better for the majority of the people.
The report alleged that Gagdi, in an interview with BBC Hausa Service, said the president would be held to account for subsidy removal savings, a claim he has denied.
However, Gagdi, in a statement issued on Sunday, urged the media to be thorough in its reporting and not lose its integrity, especially when it involves translation.
The lawmaker maintained: “The report quoting me to have allegedly said President Tinubu would be probed over the subsidy removal was misleading.
“Nothing can be farther from the truth in that news report. I granted an interview with BBC Hausa Service wherein 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.”
The lawmaker explained that in the said interview, which was in Hausa, he applauded the courage of the President for removing the subsidy and not buckling under pressure from some quarters for the reversal of the fuel subsidy.
He further explained that he acknowledged savings from the subsidy and reiterated the need for prudent spending so that the majority of Nigerians could enjoy the dividends of the subsidy removal.
Gagdi noted that he was, however, taken aback by the sensational headline in the media.
He added: “It is most irresponsible, reckless, and designed to pitch me against our hardworking, committed President and his Renewed Hope Agenda.
“For the avoidance of doubt, as a parliamentarian and one of the longest serving ones at that, I have remained committed to my party, APC, its aspirations, and most importantly, the objective of President Tinubu to renew hope and make our country work again.
“Owing to the immense esteem in which I hold the president, I voluntarily stepped down from the speakership race when I was directed to.”
‘I did not call for Tinubu’s probe ‘ – House committee chairman Gagdi