The Presidency has firmly dismissed media reports suggesting a coordinated effort to impeach Senator Godswill Akpabio as President of the Senate. This clarification was issued on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, by Senator Basheer Lado, the Presidential Adviser on National Assembly Matters (Senate).
The statement was in response to speculation fueled by recent reports about the deployment of security agents to the National Assembly complex. It was alleged that the security presence was connected to a move by certain lawmakers to initiate impeachment proceedings against Akpabio. However, Senator Lado emphasized that these reports are baseless, reiterating that there is no discord within the Senate.
Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, also refuted the claims, calling them unfounded and dismissing any suggestion of a plot against Akpabio.
In his statement, Senator Lado reassured Nigerians that the executive arm of government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is committed to fostering a harmonious relationship with the legislature. He stressed that the Senate continues to operate independently, without undue interference from the Presidency. The security agents present at the National Assembly, he clarified, are part of a routine deployment aimed at ensuring the safety of legislators and staff.
Lado's statement reads in part: Reports suggesting that security agents were deployed to prevent senators from executing their duties, particularly with regards to the alleged impeachment of the Senate President, are false. The Senate remains united and focused on advancing Nigeria’s democracy.
The Presidency, according to Lado, is focused on maintaining a constructive and respectful partnership with the Senate, driven by shared goals for the peace and prosperity of all Nigerians. He urged the public to disregard the impeachment rumors, emphasizing that such misinformation could undermine the integrity of the legislative body.
As the Senate continues its legislative work, Nigerians can be assured that the relationship between the executive and legislative branches remains strong and productive.