In recent news, the Nigeria Senate President Godswill Akpbio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been embroiled in a heated legal battle.
Senator President Akpabio appeared in court of litigation brought by Senator Natasha while the Senate ethics and privileges committee has simultaneously summoned Senator Natasha for invitations over her outbursts in the Senate. This has sparked a debate on the transparency of the Senate proceedings and the role of the Senate in representing the interests of the people.
Senator Natasha has been vocal about her demand for live broadcast trials, citing the need for public views and transparency. However, this may not align with the Senate rules and procedures. One of the main issues she has raised is the Northern youth forum’s written petition to discipline her for allegedly using her former position as chairperson of the Senate committee on local contents to construct a LNG gas mini plant in her constituency. This has resulted in a backlash and retaliation from both internal and external forces.
As a democracy, it is important to assess all these scenarios objectively. On one hand, Senator Natasha’s demand for live broadcast trials is rooted in the need for transparency and accountability. In a country where corruption and abuse of power are prevalent, it is crucial for the people to be able to witness the proceedings and hold their representatives accountable.
However, the call for a live broadcast may not be in line with the Senate rules and procedures. The Senate is a chamber of debate and deliberation, where discussions and decisions are made before presenting them to the public. A live broadcast may hinder the senators’ ability to have open and honest debates without fear of being judged by the public.
Furthermore, the issue of Senator Natasha using her former position for personal gain should be thoroughly investigated. If found guilty, appropriate disciplinary actions should be taken. On the other hand, it is important for the Senate to be fair and just in its decision-making process, and not give in to pressure from external forces.
In the end, it is essential for both the Senate and Senator Natasha to work together for the betterment of the country. The Senate should uphold its responsibility of representing the interests of the people and maintain transparency in its proceedings.
Meanwhile, Senator Natasha should also work towards addressing the concerns of her constituents and using her position for the betterment of her community.
It is only through a collaborative effort that Nigeria can move towards a stronger and more transparent democracy.
Let’s hope that the travails between the Nigeria Senate President Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan can be resolved amicably and with the best interest of the country at heart.
– Benjamin Ibrahim, a Retired Permanent Secretary, writes from Lokoja.
