Akpabio the Oppressor or a Dictator? Different Fight Episodes in the Senate
Since assuming office as Senate President, Godswill Akpabio has found himself in multiple confrontations with fellow senators. His leadership style, which many perceive as authoritative, has led to a series of dramatic face-offs, some of which have raised concerns about his ability to lead the upper chamber with fairness and inclusivity.
In this explainer, we analyze key instances where Akpabio has clashed with senators, fueling debates over whether he is an oppressive leader or merely exercising control in the Senate.
Clash with Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada Over Port Harcourt Refinery
One of Akpabio’s most recent altercations involved Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada (SDP, Nasarawa West) over the operational status of the Port Harcourt refinery.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) announced that the refinery had commenced operations. However, many Nigerians, including industry experts, questioned the claim.
During a plenary session, Wadada raised concerns about the refinery’s operations, suggesting Senate intervention to establish the truth. Akpabio, rather than entertaining the discussion, insisted that the government had already been commended for the refinery’s kick-off.
He urged Wadada to present his concerns as a motion rather than engaging in a “social media presentation.” Wadada, visibly upset, rejected any association with social media and reminded Akpabio that he had earlier submitted concerns in writing three months prior without response. Despite this, Akpabio maintained his stance, leading to a tense exchange.
Heated Exchange with Senator Seriake Dickson Over Rivers State Emergency Rule
Tensions flared when Akpabio clashed with Senator Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa Central) over the proper procedural handling of a motion regarding the state of emergency in Rivers State.
Dickson, a former governor, attempted to raise a point of order, but Akpabio was reluctant to oblige. When Dickson pressed further, Akpabio cut him off, reminding him that he had seen him on TV declaring his opposition to the Senate’s stance on the Rivers State issue.
In response, Dickson asserted that mutual respect should be maintained, emphasizing that the presiding officer must reciprocate respect for senators. The exchange underscored growing concerns about Akpabio’s approach to leadership and debate management in the Senate.
Senator Ireti Kingibe’s Walkout Over FCT Demolitions
A dramatic scene unfolded when Senator Ireti Kingibe (FCT) stormed out of the chamber after being denied the opportunity to present a motion on the ongoing demolitions in Abuja.
Kingibe accused the FCT Administration, under the directive of Minister Nyesom Wike, of conducting massive demolitions without due process, causing hardship for residents. Akpabio, however, refused to grant her the floor, sparking a heated exchange. Frustrated, Kingibe left the chamber in protest.
She later returned but was asked to apologize before being allowed to speak. Initially resisting, she eventually relented after insistence from Akpabio.
The incident reinforced the perception that Akpabio was silencing opposition voices within the Senate.
Seating Arrangement Controversy with Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
In another tense moment, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) refused to move from her assigned seat after a reshuffle caused by opposition members crossing to the majority wing. Chief Whip Senator Tahir Monguno cited Senate rules, stating that seat adjustments were within the Senate President’s authority.
Akpabio backed Monguno’s decision, preventing Akpoti-Uduaghan from speaking from her original seat. This led to a standoff in which she accused the leadership of trying to silence her, stating, “I don’t care if I am silenced. I am not afraid of you.”
Despite the drama, Akpoti-Uduaghan refused to move, prompting concerns about the Senate President’s handling of opposition lawmakers.
Senator Ali Ndume’s Angry Walkout Over Procedural Errors
The crisis in the Senate escalated further when Chief Whip Ali Ndume (APC, Borno South) stormed out in frustration over Akpabio’s handling of procedural issues.
Ndume raised concerns about procedural errors in a motion regarding the Nigeria-Niger border re-opening but was repeatedly ruled out of order. When another senator, Sunday Karimi (APC, Kogi West), attempted to intervene, he was also shut down.
Feeling that Akpabio was disregarding Senate rules, Ndume walked out of the plenary in protest, reinforcing allegations that the Senate President was intolerant of differing opinions.
Past Feud with Bukola Saraki Over Seating Arrangements
Akpabio’s history of confrontations isn’t new. In 2018, he clashed with then-Senate President Bukola Saraki over seating arrangements in the chamber.
Akpabio attempted to speak from a non-assigned seat, but Saraki insisted he move. This led to a rowdy session, with Akpabio accusing Saraki of bias. After the incident, Akpabio demanded that Saraki resign since the APC had gained a majority in the Senate.
This event from years past mirrors his current approach—an aggressive stance in asserting authority, often at the cost of consensus-building.
Conclusion: An Authoritarian Leader or a Strong-Willed Senate President?
Akpabio’s numerous confrontations with fellow senators paint a picture of a leader who struggles to accommodate dissenting voices. His leadership style has been described by some as oppressive, while others argue that he is simply trying to maintain order.
However, his frequent clashes—whether over procedural matters, opposition voices, or seating arrangements—raise serious questions about his ability to preside over a democratic institution where debate and dissent are essential.
So, is Akpabio an oppressor or just a firm leader? That remains open for debate. But one thing is certain: his leadership style will continue to be a major talking point in Nigerian politics.
What Do You Think?
Is Akpabio merely enforcing discipline, or is he suppressing opposition within the Senate? Share your thoughts in the comments and let’s discuss!
