The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called for civility in the Nigerian Senate, urging lawmakers to put an end to the festering crisis and political disruptions that have marred the legislative process.
NANS Comrade Oladoja Olushola, who was represented by Jeremiah Friday, NANS Financial Secretary, during a protest in solidarity with the 10th National Assembly on Tuesday said the unfolding drama within Senate chambers has reached a critical juncture that demands collective attention.
“The recent exchanges in the Nigerian Senate, marked by attacks and counterattacks, have raised serious concerns.
“As Nigerian students, we find it necessary to weigh in on these developments.
“The Senate floor, once a sanctuary for reasoned debate and policy formulation, has devolved into an arena of personal vendettas and political brinkmanship.
“This is concerning, especially at a time when the Federal Government is making concerted efforts to reshape the country’s economic trajectory, combat inflation, reduce the cost of living, and promote socio-cultural respect, dignity, and harmony.
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“President Tinubu’s administration has embarked on ambitious economic reforms that require legislative partnership, not parliamentary paralysis.”
NANS stated that the Senate should not be a battleground for political warfare. “Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s decision to exploit flak from her unfortunate misunderstanding of Senate rules reflects a troubling trend: prioritizing personal ambition over institutional integrity.
“Such actions blur the lines between legitimate political argumentation and seemingly manipulative tactics designed to incite conflict rather than foster constructive dialogue.”
NANS, therefore, advocated for an environment where healthy debates thrive but emphasized the need to draw the line when personal vendettas destabilize legislative peace in a nation where the price of a bag of rice outweighs the nation’s monthly minimum wage.
“By perpetuating these distractions, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan not only puts the reputation of her fellow senators at risk but also endangers the integrity of the Senate itself.
“We call for a return to civility, where legislators focus on their duties and uphold the tenets of democracy rather than engaging in politically motivated tactics.
“While we respect her right to fully exercise her rights within the courts of competent jurisdiction, the unmistakable desire of Nigerians for socioeconomic stability should be the focus of the Senate today.
“As representatives of Nigeria’s student community the very future of this nation we cannot remain silent observers to this institutional degradation.
The Senate’s constitutional mandate extends far beyond providing a platform for political grandstanding; it exists to craft legislation that addresses the lived realities of everyday Nigerians,” he added.
According to him, NANS, as an engaged body that values the integrity of the legislative process, believes it is essential that all members of the Senate adhere strictly to the rules that govern the esteemed institution.
“It is crucial that we maintain a high standard of accountability to uphold public trust and confidence in our government.”
“Given the seriousness of the alleged misconduct, we urge appropriate disciplinary action against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. Such action not only enforces the importance of adhering to the Senate’s rules but also serves as a reminder that we are all responsible for maintaining the dignity of our legislative body,” he added.
The students further urged Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to reconsider her approach and contribute positively to Nigeria’s legislative discourse, rather than perpetuating division.
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