From: Joy Musa
The PDP Northern Minority Consultative Forum has strongly condemned the actions of some Senators within the People's Democratic Party (PDP) who recently endorsed a protest document calling for the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti. The forum expressed its deep disappointment, highlighting the endorsement as a grave violation of due process.
In a statement, the forum described the endorsement as "deeply disappointing" and stated that the actions taken by the Senators were “inappropriate” and could only happen in a country where "anything seems permissible." The protest letter, which urged the suspension of Senator Akpoti, was supported by several Senators, including Shehu Buba, the representative of Bauchi South, despite the lack of a proper procedural review.
“The endorsement of this protest document without following established procedures is a serious disservice to the values of justice, fairness, and due process," the forum’s statement read. “It is deeply troubling that some of our colleagues have acted without due consideration, disregarding the essential mechanisms for resolving disputes within the Senate.”
The statement also singled out Senator Shehu Buba for criticism, specifically referencing his role as the sponsor of the controversial bill that led to the introduction of electronic banking charges under the APC-led government. The charges, which have faced intense backlash from Nigerians, were widely perceived as detrimental to the country's working-class citizens. The forum questioned Buba’s commitment to the welfare of ordinary Nigerians, labeling the bill as “anti-people.”
“Senator Buba’s involvement in the imposition of electronic banking charges speaks volumes about his priorities,” the forum stated. “His actions reflect a disregard for the financial well-being of average Nigerians, further compounding the damage caused by the APC administration’s tax policies.”
The forum condemned both Buba and the other Senators who signed the letter calling for Akpoti’s suspension, calling their actions “reckless” and accusing them of lacking adequate due diligence. The group warned that such actions undermine the credibility of the Senate and set a dangerous precedent for handling internal conflicts.
As tensions rise over the matter, political observers are closely monitoring the unfolding situation, questioning whether the protest document was motivated by deeper political agendas within the Senate. It remains unclear whether the Senate leadership will take any formal action against those involved in the endorsement.
Senator Natasha Akpoti, an outspoken advocate for social justice, women’s empowerment, and infrastructure development, has yet to issue a public response. Her supporters have rallied behind her, accusing the Senators who endorsed the protest letter of attempting to silence her advocacy for the people and her stance on critical national issues.
The controversy surrounding the protest document is expected to spark further debates within the Senate. Calls for greater transparency, adherence to due process, and the need for internal reforms are anticipated to intensify as the situation develops.
As political dynamics continue to shift, Nigerians and political analysts will closely watch how the Senate leadership handles the issue and whether the principles of justice and fairness are upheld in this matter.
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