Is Senate President Godswill Akpabio a dictator?
Yesterday some senators challenged the president of the House of Senate, Godswill Akpabio right on the floor of the chamber and while journalists were busy rolling their cameras taking pictures and recording videos.
That would be the second time senators would call the bluff of the chairman of the 10th National Assembly. They challenged the former Akwa Ibom governor when he openly revealed that a certain amount of money had been sent to the senators’ accounts.
Shortly after that, the house went on recess and a subtle protest ensued at the Niger Delta region. Some of the senators later complained that he blackmailed them and sent peanuts to their accounts while he pocketed the largest share. The matter died down eventually.
Yesterday Senator Ali Ndume, a top member of the house, who futilely attempted to lead the chamber in the past, talked tough and accused the president of the Senate of passing bills and executive orders without carrying others along.
The senator explained that Godswill Akpabio hastily passes bills without their consent. He was not the one who brought up the topic. The Chief whip was just contributing to the submission made by another senator.
Ali Ndume said, There are few instances like the amendment of the constitution, some parts require two-thirds. That means the senators before voting will be informed that there will be a vote on a certain matter and they need to be present so that two-thirds will be achieved. But any decision that comes up like this during the sitting of the senate, the two-third means those that are here.”
Meanwhile, the debate on non-inclusiveness started when the member representing Nasarawa South, Mohammed Onawo accused the president of the Senate. He told the assembly, “We have been ambushed all the time that very sensitive bills are brought and are expected to be passed with the speed of light, which is not good for this country.
“Every senator here is supposed to be adequately informed; he does his research, comes to the floor and makes a positive contribution. But in a situation where even money bills are brought and we are expected to pass it within two hours, it doesn’t make sense, it doesn’t go well for this country.”
Mr. Godswill Akpabio didn’t deny that bills are hastily passed. He only informed his colleagues that the bills the Senate was passing (perhaps without including others) are in the interest of the country.
The ex governor said, “If what we pass is good for the country, history will judge me right. If what we are passing with the speed of light is in the interest of Nigerians, history will judge me right.
He added, “I don’t think we would come here to pass a bill that will not be in the interest of Nigerians, So, your point of order is noted.
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