A nation’s legislative chamber is meant to be a beacon of integrity, a sanctuary where the voices of the people echo through policies and reforms. Yet, in Nigeria, the Senate—the so-called Red Chamber—seems to be degenerating into a cesspool of controversy, where ethical boundaries are blurred, and personal interests reign supreme. Instead of being a house of law and order, it has increasingly become a stage for political theatrics.
One of the fundamental principles of justice is that no one should be a judge in their own case. Yet, time and again, Nigerian lawmakers have mastered the art of shielding themselves from accountability. How can the Senate President, whose office should embody the highest standard of moral rectitude, continue to fraternize with scandals instead of addressing them? Leadership is about foresight—preventing chaos before it erupts. As the Igala proverb wisely states, “Enwu bibi awa, agbere ma du k’eche tinyo”—at the sight of evil, it is the back of the leg that should push it away. Yet, rather than kicking scandals out, the Senate seems to be indulging them, allowing them to fester until they overshadow the very essence of governance.
The case of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan raises even more questions about the quality of leadership in the Senate. From childhood, we were often told that women have “baby brains,” an outdated and sexist stereotype that should have no place in modern discourse. But one might ask—judging by her actions—is Natasha exhibiting a so-called male brain, or is she proving that true leadership transcends gender? Leadership is not about chromosomes or DNA; it is about moral clarity, decisiveness, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Unfortunately, these qualities seem to be in short supply within Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber.
Beyond Natasha’s case, a disturbing wave of new controversies continues to ripple through the Senate. Allegations of corruption, financial mismanagement, and political vendettas are surfacing with alarming regularity. What should be an institution of national pride is becoming a source of national embarrassment. The Nigerian people deserve better. They deserve a Senate that upholds the highest standards of democracy, not one that indulges in backroom deals and ethical compromises.
If the Red Chamber does not change course, it risks eroding what little credibility it still holds. A nation already grappling with economic hardship, insecurity, and social unrest cannot afford a leadership that adds to its woes. Nigeria does not need legislators who dance around the flames of controversy—it needs leaders who extinguish them before they engulf the nation.
– Inah Boniface Ocholi writes from Ayah – Igalamela/Odolu LGA, Kogi state.
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