Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged critics to refrain from making uninformed comments about the workings of the Upper Legislative Chamber, advising the public to familiarize themselves with parliamentary procedures before engaging in debates.
Akpabio made the remarks during a meeting with a delegation from the Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders Forum in Abuja. His comments came in response to the recent suspension of Kogi Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for violating Senate rules, a decision that Akpabio emphasized had been unanimously supported by lawmakers.
The Senate President expressed concern over the rising tide of uninformed commentary on television and social media, stating, “Those who lack a proper understanding of Senate procedures are the ones offering opinions on matters they know nothing about. It’s important to seek the facts before making public statements. We urge the public to stop misquoting Senate rules.”
Akpabio further criticized individuals outside the legislature attempting to interpret Senate procedures, drawing a comparison: “It’s like a herbalist quoting the Bible or someone unfamiliar with Islamic teachings trying to interpret the Qur’an.”
Responding to concerns raised by Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, leader of the delegation, Akpabio also addressed the historic significance of his position as Senate President, noting that the Niger Delta had last held the role 46 years ago. “The Senate President does not represent himself alone; he represents a region vital to the economic survival of this country. We will not take this position lightly, regardless of any political opposition,” he stated.
He dismissed attempts to undermine his leadership, attributing some of the criticisms to political mischief from those unfamiliar with Senate procedures.
The delegation, led by Lokpobiri, also expressed concerns about the political instability in Rivers State, warning that it could escalate and destabilize the entire Niger Delta region. They called for Senate intervention on several key regional projects, including the Coastal Road project, the delayed commencement of operations at the Maritime University in Oron, and the extension of the Warri-Itakpe rail line to Abuja.
In response, Akpabio assured the delegation that Senators from the Niger Delta would take action to address the Rivers State crisis and ensure regional stability. He also confirmed that the Coastal Road project had been discussed with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and pledged to continue pushing for progress on other important regional initiatives.
“We will work towards solutions that bring peace and development to the Niger Delta,” Akpabio said, reiterating his commitment to addressing the concerns of the region.
The meeting ended with a reaffirmation of strong support for Akpabio’s leadership, as well as the Senate’s role in tackling both national and regional issues through legislative engagement.
