Maduabuchi Idam, an activist lawyer, stated on Saturday that Senate President Godswill Akpabio should leave the chamber following the released video of him suggesting people should eat wherever they find food.
The footage of Akpabio sparked outrage on social media, with Nigerians demanding his departure from government.
Idam criticized Akpabio’s statements, recalling how the Senate President distributed two million to senators for amusement.
To this end, the constitutional lawyer urged Nigerians to hold their leaders accountable for their actions and demand apologies for wrongdoing in office.
In a statement, Idam said: “Saying that “Nigerians should eat anywhere they find food” was pretty honest but unfortunately hypocritical advice, considering that the advisor does not and would not eat just anyplace.
“A Senate President who boasted in front of Nigerians that he would be enjoying and watching television with his family while poor Nigerians protested due to hunger had long lost empathy and feeling.
“I will not criticize him for blatantly sending money in the form of “prayers” into his colleagues’ bank accounts described as “Mail Boxes” for recreational purposes during vacation. The facts of the cash paid and their sources are still being questioned before Court 12 of the Federal High Court Abuja Division, in action No.FHC/ABJ/CS/1394/2023, Maduabuchi O. Idam vs. The Senate President Of Nigeria. As a result, I will not comment further on the subject because it is subjudice, or pending in court.
“Until Nigerians learn to demand that officials resign from their positions (if found to have committed misconduct) or apologize for notorious behavior while in public office, institutions will remain a joke.
“These and many more reasons are why even ordinary citizens irresponsibly disregard, despise, scorn, and mock our claimed holy National Assembly. As a result, those who are invited for whatever reason decline the invitation without fear of repercussions. After all, the bulk of its main executives and cabinet members had previously declined its invites.
“The pride of the National Assembly must be gained via the character and behavior of its officers. Therefore, officers of the National Assembly must not demonstrate indecorous behavior must not be treated as a stage play.”
