Following the statement made by Godswill Akpabio, the Nigerian Senate President during the preceding on Monday, it seems like the upper legislative chamber will be heading for a crisis as Senate Chief Whip, Ali Ndume disclosed the conspiracy by senators to be taken against Akpabio if he continues to make unwanted statements.
Mr. Ndume who speaks during an interview with BBC Hausa service on Friday said Mr. Akpabio’s comments are unbecoming of a leader.
He said the money received was their statutory entitlement and nothing special.
According to him “It’s common knowledge that if any employee is going on leave, he/she is entitled to a leave grant. That was the money we received, and it is nothing unusual or special.
“All senators received two million nairas. And I am making this comment with a heavy heart because he [Akpabio] is the cause of this controversy.
“He created an impression as if we were given some special or huge amounts of money. What’s the big deal if I receive a two million naira allowance in my capacity as a senator?
“He made a very wrong statement, and I warned him immediately that his comments were unbecoming of an elder.
“We are even planning to take drastic action against him if he continues making unguarded statements and acting as if we are kids.”
Recall, Mr. Akpabio while addressing his colleagues on Monday before proceeding to annual recess, said a token has been sent to the lawmakers to enable them to “enjoy their holidays”.
Upon realizing that he was on live TV, the Senate president immediately withdrew the statement.
The comment elicited wide condemnation from Nigerians, who accused the lawmakers of turning deaf ears to the suffering and hardship in the country.
