By Daniel Edu
Nigerian citizens are expressing their dissatisfaction on social media after Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced that a “gesture” had been provided to Senators for their recess enjoyment.
Akpabio disclosed on Tuesday that a “gesture” had been dispatched to the lawmakers for their holiday leisure. The announcement came after the Red Chamber completed the screening and confirmation of ministerial nominees for President Bola Tinubu on Monday, subsequently adjourning the plenary until September 26.
In his address to colleagues prior to the adjournment motion, Akpabio mentioned the gesture, which many interpreted as monetary compensation. He indicated that the Clerk of the National Assembly, Magaji Tambuwal, had conveyed this to the senators for their holiday pleasure.
However, Akpabio was promptly reminded by certain principal officers that his remarks were being broadcast live on television and in front of reporters. Realizing his error, he swiftly retracted his statement, clarifying that prayers had been dispatched to their email inboxes to ensure a safe journey and return.
The incident sparked a wave of criticism on Twitter, as numerous netizens chastised the Senate President and other lawmakers for allegedly distributing funds among themselves while the country faces widespread suffering and hardship.
