Akpabio-Natasha crisis exposes leadership failures in NASS — APC chieftain

A renowned security expert and All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Abayomi Mumuni, has called for urgent reforms in the country’s governance structure.

The call was made following the ongoing crisis between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan which has sparked widespread concerns over leadership failures in the National Assembly.

The dispute, which has escalated in recent weeks, highlights deep-seated divisions within Nigeria’s legislative body, raising questions about the ability of the nation’s political leaders to effectively manage internal conflicts and uphold the integrity of democratic institutions.

The disagreement between Akpabio and Natasha has drawn criticism from political analysts and civil society groups, who warn that such conflicts distract from critical national issues, including economic instability and security challenges.

In a statement issued on Thursday by his media aide, Rasheed Abubakar, Mumuni lamented the absence of strong leadership and the failure of elder statesmen to step in as mediators, urging a return to traditional values of guidance and unity.

“In light of recent events involving Senate President Akpabio and Senator Natasha, it has become increasingly evident that Nigeria stands at a crossroads. The ongoing disagreements and tensions among our esteemed leaders raise fundamental questions about the presence and influence of our revered elders in the nation.”

The APC chieftain criticized the silence of senior political figures, suggesting that their inaction has contributed to a growing climate of confusion, disillusionment, and division among Nigerians.

“It is disheartening to witness a landscape where our so-called elders appear passive while significant issues loom over our nation. Disparities in leadership and communication echo throughout our society, resulting in a climate of confusion and disillusionment among the citizenry. We must ask ourselves: Do we still have genuine elders in Nigeria capable of guiding us through these turbulent times?”

Mumuni, a renowned security expert linked the Senate crisis to Nigeria’s wider governance issues, arguing that political infighting has diverted attention from pressing national concerns such as economic hardship, insecurity, and youth unemployment. He emphasized that failure to address these leadership gaps could worsen Nigeria’s fragile political stability.

“The silence of our elders, who traditionally have been seen as pillars of wisdom and unity, is troubling. Why do they remain unresponsive while crises multiply across our beloved country? This inaction is not merely disappointing; it is a disservice to the Nigerian people who look to these leaders for support, guidance, and resolution.”

According to Mumuni, Nigeria’s political class must move beyond personal disputes and focus on governance, warning that the failure to do so could erode public trust in democracy and leadership institutions.

“The current state of discord is a reflection of broader societal tensions that cannot be ignored. From economic challenges to security threats, Nigeria faces a myriad of pressing issues requiring immediate and collective attention. Yet, instead of uniting to confront these challenges, our leaders risk perpetuating divisions that undermine national progress.”

Mumuni called on senior political leaders, elder statesmen, and civil society organizations to intervene in national crises and restore confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions. He stressed the need for constructive dialogue and unity, urging Nigerians to demand better leadership.

“If our elders choose to remain silent in the face of ongoing crises, we must contemplate alternative pathways to address our challenges. Citizens need to come together to foster solutions that prioritize unity, resilience, and constructive discourse. It is our collective responsibility to reshape the narrative of our nation, ensuring that our voices are heard and our aspirations are met.”

He further emphasized that Nigeria’s progress depends on strong, accountable leadership, warning that continued political divisions could destabilize national unity and hinder economic development.

“Let us remember that a nation thrives on the principles of collaboration, understanding, and respect. In moments of distress, it is crucial for our leaders and elders to rise above personal grievances and advocate for the greater good of Nigeria. To remain indifferent is not an option; we must demand accountability and proactive engagement from those in positions of influence.”

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