Abuja, Nigeria – The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, is facing widespread criticism following his controversial expulsion of Senator Natasha Akpoti from the Senate chamber. Legal experts and political analysts describe the action as a violation of constitutional rights and an assault on democratic principles.

The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and the Standing Orders of the Senate guarantee every Senator the right to speak and represent their constituents without fear or intimidation. Section 39(1) of the Constitution upholds freedom of expression, while the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act protects lawmakers from harassment over their legislative opinions.

Akpabio’s decision to eject Senator Akpoti has sparked concerns about abuse of power and suppression of dissent within the National Assembly. Critics argue that the move is not only unconstitutional but also sets a dangerous precedent for legislative independence.

Legal and Political Reactions

Constitutional lawyer Dr. Abdulrahman Yusuf condemned the action, stating that "no Senate President has the authority to unilaterally silence an elected lawmaker. This is an affront to the rule of law and legislative autonomy."

Political commentator Malam Usman Garba described Akpabio’s action as “dictatorial,” warning that such conduct erodes democratic values. "If a Senate President can silence a fellow Senator in broad daylight, what happens to the voices of ordinary Nigerians?" he questioned.

Growing Concerns Over Senate Leadership

Observers have raised concerns over Akpabio’s leadership style, questioning whether he is turning the Senate into a personal empire where opposition voices are suppressed. The incident has fueled debates over the role of the Senate in upholding democracy and whether lawmakers are truly free to represent their people.

A senior legislative aide, who spoke on condition of anonymity, stated that many Senators are "increasingly uneasy" with Akpabio’s handling of dissenting opinions. "The Senate is meant to be a forum for debate, not a place where lawmakers are expelled for challenging authority," the aide remarked.

Calls for Accountability

Pro-democracy groups and civil society organizations have called for an investigation into Akpabio’s actions, urging Nigerians to reject any attempt to undermine democratic institutions.

"This is not just about Senator Natasha Akpoti. It is about the integrity of our democratic system. If we allow this to go unchallenged, we risk setting a dangerous precedent where leaders silence opposition at will," said Barrister Aisha Suleiman, a human rights advocate.

As public outcry grows, political analysts warn that if left unchecked, this incident could mark the beginning of a larger crackdown on democratic freedoms in Nigeria.

What Next?

With pressure mounting, all eyes are on the Senate leadership to clarify the legal basis for Akpoti’s expulsion. Many are calling for a reversal of the action and a reaffirmation of the constitutional rights of all Senators.

For now, the controversy surrounding Senator Natasha Akpoti’s expulsion has raised fundamental questions about the future of legislative independence and democracy in Nigeria.

Katsina Times will continue to monitor developments on this issue.