Deputy President of the Senate, Ike Ekweremadu, has assured Nigerians and the International community that all democratic steps are being taken to preserve the nation’s democracy and protect the independence of the legislature.

Ekeremadu gave the assurance in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Uche Anichukwu in Abuja on Monday.

The statement stated that Ekweremadu received numerous calls and messages from elder statesmen, governors, and lawmakers across party lines over the threat to his freedom.

``Nigerians have continued to express utter dismay and concern over the unfolding drama in which his life and liberty are being threatened by desperate politicians,’’ it stated.

The deputy president further assured Nigerians that necessary steps were being taken by security agencies to beef up security around him.

He commended the security agencies for the professional manner they were handling the situation.

He also commended youths across the country for volunteering to provide additional security around him.

He however noted that ``no amount of intimidation or harassment will deter me from carrying out the constitutionally prescribed duties.

``Duties, which on June 9, 2015, the PDP and APC senators willingly elected me in the full glare of the world to perform.’’ (NAN)

•Photo shows Ekweremadu.