Quick Summary:
Former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai accuses Senate President Godswill Akpabio of being the main obstacle in the Electoral Act amendment debate, calling him a “lapdog” to President Tinubu and urging senators to resist the move.
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has launched a scathing attack on Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of being the real obstacle behind the controversy surrounding the proposed amendment to the Electoral Act.
Speaking in an interview on Trust TV, El-Rufai dismissed claims that the Senate as an institution was responsible for the contentious legislative move, insisting that the problem lies squarely with Akpabio’s leadership.
Accuses Akpabio of Serving Political Interests
El-Rufai alleged that Akpabio is acting on behalf of powerful political interests, describing him as a “lapdog” to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (Asiwaju).
He claimed that the Senate President’s actions are politically motivated and undermine legislative independence, warning that the proposed amendment could erode democratic integrity.
Rejects Senate Formalities
El-Rufai also dismissed the “distinguished” title often used for members of the upper chamber, saying his personal history with Akpabio gives him the right to speak bluntly.
Background
The proposed amendment to the Electoral Act has sparked widespread debate across Nigeria’s political landscape. Critics argue that the move could weaken electoral transparency and concentrate power in the hands of political elites.
El-Rufai’s remarks mark one of the strongest public criticisms yet of Akpabio’s leadership, reflecting growing divisions within the political class over the direction of legislative reforms under the Tinubu administration.
