The Nigerian Senate, once a bastion of democratic deliberation and debate, has devolved into a platform for petty tyranny and vendetta under the leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The latest victim of his high-handedness is Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who has been systematically marginalised and silenced since the infamous “nightclub” incident last year.
Akpabio’s actions are a clear abuse of power, designed to intimidate and cow Senator Natasha into submission. By removing her from official foreign representations, denying her the opportunity to present motions or contribute to debates, and even changing her seat assignment, Akpabio is sending a chilling message: dissent will not be tolerated.
But Senator Natasha refuses to be silenced. Her courage in the face of Akpabio’s bullying is a testament to her commitment to her constituents and the principles of democracy. Her allegations against Akpabio are serious and deserving of investigation, rather than dismissal or retaliation.
The Nigerian Senate must wake up to the reality of Akpabio’s tyranny and take corrective action. The rights and privileges of senators, including Senator Natasha, must be respected and protected. The Senate must not become a rubber stamp for Akpabio’s personal vendettas, but a vibrant and inclusive institution where diverse voices are heard and valued.
It is time for Akpabio to end his vendetta against Senator Natasha and focus on leading the Senate with integrity and fairness. Anything less is a betrayal of the trust placed in him by the Nigerian people.
– Samuel Babatunde wrote from Lagos.
