Ajaka, Kogi SDP Gov candidate, slams Akpabio over ‘legislative autocracy, rascality’ against Sen Akpoti
The Kogi State Social Democratic Party (SDP) gubernatorial candidate, Alhaji Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, has strongly condemned what he describes as “legislative autocracy and rascality” displayed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio in his treatment of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the representative of Kogi Central Senatorial District.
In a fiery statement issued on Thursday, Ajaka accused Akpabio of turning the Senate into a platform for bullying and dictatorship, citing a widely circulated video that captured the Senate President openly dismissing Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan during plenary.
Ajaka emphasized that Nigeria’s democracy thrives on inclusion, debate, and tolerance, all of which he claimed were absent in Akpabio’s handling of the session.
“In a democracy, the legislative arm is critical to upholding democratic values. It cannot be found engaging in dictatorial behavior that demeans a fellow senator and ridicules the integrity of the Senate,” Ajaka stated.
The incident, he argued, reinforces the growing perception that the Senate, under Akpabio’s leadership, lacks independence and operates with disregard for constitutional principles and the rule of law.
Ajaka lamented that Nigerians expect a responsive and accountable Senate, not one where elected representatives are denied the right to speak for their constituents. He warned that such high-handedness portends danger for the future of Nigeria’s democracy.
“Senator Akpabio is a former governor, a former minister, and now Senate President. By virtue of his experience, he should possess the skills and temperament necessary to build consensus and foster cooperation among his colleagues, irrespective of their gender, background, or political affiliations,” Ajaka stated.
“It is disappointing that he chooses to constantly bully Senator Natasha. This must stop.”
Ajaka did not stop at condemnation; he called for decisive action, urging the Senate to replace Akpabio with a leader who will uphold democratic values.
“The Senate must take action by replacing him with a more competent leader—one who will demonstrate inclusivity, fairness, and respect for all its members,” he declared.
Warning that Nigeria’s democratic future is at stake, Ajaka urged lawmakers to focus on governance and improving citizens’ lives rather than engaging in power struggles and political theatrics.
“The Nigerian Senate should prioritize the welfare of the people, not unnecessary conflicts and dramas that undermine the very democracy we strive to protect.”
