Senate President Godswill Akpabio has cautioned against uninformed public criticism of Senate affairs, urging Nigerians to understand parliamentary rules before making comments. His remarks followed the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a move that has sparked controversy and legal threats.
Speaking in Abuja while receiving a delegation from the Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders Forum, Akpabio dismissed criticisms of the Senate’s decision, warning against misinterpretations of legislative procedures. He likened such misrepresentation to a “herbalist quoting the Bible.”
Akpabio also emphasized the historical significance of his leadership, stating, “The Niger Delta last held this position 46 years ago, and we will not toy with it.”
Meanwhile, former Senate President Bukola Saraki has rejected claims that criticism of Akpabio’s handling of the situation is an attempt to undermine a Niger Delta leader. In a statement by his media office, Saraki insisted his concerns were about transparency, not ethnicity or party politics. He urged the Senate to ensure an open and unbiased investigation into the allegations made by Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The controversy has drawn reactions from the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), which has demanded that the Senate rescind Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension or face legal action. SERAP described the suspension as a violation of her fundamental rights and warned that it could set a dangerous precedent for silencing dissenting voices in the legislature.
Similarly, PDP chieftain Chief Francis Maku has argued that the Senate lacks the authority to suspend a senator beyond 14 days, citing a 2018 Court of Appeal ruling. He urged the Senate to reconsider its decision to ensure the constituents of Kogi Central remain represented.
The debate over Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension continues to stir controversy, with calls for fairness, due process, and respect for democratic principles in the Senate.
