Ajaka faults Akpabio’s action against Natasha 

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) governorship candidate in the 2023 governorship election in Kogi state , Alhaji Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, has condemned  in strong terms, the display of legislative autocracy by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, following the drama that occurred with Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial Zone.

This was contained in a statement issued by Alhaji Yakubu Muri Ajaka on Thursday and made available to newsmen in Lokoja, Kogi state. 

According to him, in a democracy, the legislative arm of government is critical to showcasing democratic values of inclusion and tolerance for democratic sustenance, and can not be found wanting, lamenting that  displaying dictatorial attributes through undemocratic statements and actions that does not dignified a fellow colleague as seen in the trending video.

The statement said the action has  ridiculed the senate, thereby justifying the growing perception that the senate under Akpabio’s leadership has shown lack of independence, disregard for constitution  and rule of law.

He further noted that Nigerians yearn for a senate that is accountable and responsive to their needs, saying  when representatives elected are denied their rights to present their constituency’s submission at plenary with a lack of insensitivity  as captured in the trending video, it portend danger for the future of the nation’s democracy.

In his words “It is expected that, a man like Senator 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  gender, background, or political affiliations.

“Also as Senate President, he must display those attributes. It is disappointing that, he chooses to constantly bully Senator Natasha, and this must stop”. 

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.

“The Nigerian Senate should focus  on improving citizens’ well-being, rather than engaging in unnecessary conflicts and dramas that undermine the democratic principles upon which the country was founded.