The Kogi State SDP Gubernatorial Candidate, Alhaji Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, has condemned in strong terms the display of legislative autocracy and rascality by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, following the drama that occurred with Senator Natasha Akpoti, the Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial Zone.

Alhaji Yakubu, in a press statement issued on Thursday, noted that in a democracy, the legislative arm of government is critical to showcasing democratic values of inclusion and tolerance for democratic sustenance and cannot be found wanting, displaying dictatorial attributes through undemocratic statements and actions that indignify a fellow colleague, as seen in the trending video which further ridiculed the senate, thereby justifying the growing perception that the senate under Akpabio’s leadership has been rigged with a lack of independence, disregard for constitutionality, and rule of law.

He further noted that Nigerians yearn for a senate that is accountable and responsive to their needs, but when representatives elected are denied their elected right to present their constituency’s submission at plenary with a lack of sensitivity and display of tyranny, as captured in the trending video, it portends danger for the future of our democracy.

“It is expected that a man like Sen. Akpabio, a former Governor, former Minister, and now a Senator, should possess the skills and temperament necessary to build consensus and foster cooperation among his colleagues, irrespective of their gender, background, or political affiliations, and as Senate President, he must display those attributes. It is disappointing that he chooses to constantly bully Senator Natasha, and this must stop,” Muri Ajaka said.

He therefore calls on the Senate to take decisive action by replacing him with a competent leader as Senate President, who will demonstrate more inclusive and democratic leadership. He warned that the future of Nigeria’s democracy is at stake if the Senate fails to uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and respect for all its members.

He concluded by saying that the Nigerian Senate’s focus should be on improving citizens’ well-being, rather than engaging in unnecessary conflicts and dramas that undermine the democratic principles upon which the country was founded. (Nigerian Tribune)