Wednesday May 14, 2025 |
Stakeholders from various political parties in Akwa Ibom state have rejected calls by a coalition of civil society groups for the resignation of the Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Recall that 56 civil society organizations (CSOs), including Amnesty International Nigeria and the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) had asked Akpabio to resign over alleged electoral fraud in 2019.
The stakeholders under the aegis of Coalition of Democrats (CODE) condemned the CSOs stance, describing their position as a political ambush aimed at distracting the National Assembly and President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
In a statement issued after its emergency meeting in Uyo yesterday, the body urged the CSOs to desist from linking Akpabio to any electoral malpractice.
The statement signed by the chairman, Useneobong Akpabio and secretary, Usoro Akpanusoh also asked the CSOs to focus on their advocacy efforts on socio-economic issues rather than constitutional matters like calling for the resignation of elected officials.
The statement reads in parts, “These demands not only lack justification but also demonstrate a fundamental misunderstanding of legislative processes and democratic governance.
“Since assuming office, Senate President Akpabio has exemplified leadership, balancing the diverse interests of a complex Senate while committing to the unity, stability, and progress of Nigeria.
“Under his leadership, the Senate has passed significant bills, promoted constructive oversight, and maintained institutional integrity amidst national challenges.
“CODE views the campaign against the Senate President as a desperate attempt by forces opposed to reform, openness, and the new direction in the Senate.
“At a time when Nigeria requires collective effort to address economic, security, and governance challenges, the nation cannot afford unnecessary political distractions.
“CODE also urges the 56 CSOs to refrain from linking Senate President Godswill Akpabio to alleged 2019 electoral fraud and demanding his resignation, as he neither participated in nor benefited from such activities.”
