Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Timi Frank, has issued a stern warning to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, cautioning him against provoking a Kenyan-style uprising in Nigeria. Frank’s remarks came in response to Akpabio’s statement that the parliament would readily approve a request for a new presidential aircraft if the need arises.
In a statement issued on Monday, Frank described Akpabio’s comments as highly condescending and degrading. He emphasized that one of the parliament’s cardinal roles is to serve as a check and balance on other arms of government. According to Frank, Akpabio has deviated from this role by encouraging the executive on potential expenditures regardless of the economic challenges faced by taxpayers.
“Akpabio may choose to align himself with President Bola Tinubu, but he must not reduce the National Assembly to a rubber stamp for the executive,” Frank asserted. He criticized Akpabio’s approach, stating, “His audacity in overturning legislative procedures and his frequent disrespectful remarks undermine our democracy and insult Nigerians.”
Frank stressed that while Akpabio could be an ardent supporter of President Tinubu, he must refrain from pre-approving executive requests and justifying such actions. He urged Akpabio to stick to his constitutional duties, ensuring thorough scrutiny of financial bills to prevent wasteful spending. Frank also highlighted that the safety and airworthiness of an aircraft depend on regular maintenance rather than its age.
Raising concerns about the substantial budget allocations for the Presidential Fleet, Frank questioned, “What happened to the approximately N214 billion allocated for maintenance of the Presidential Fleet from 1999 to date?”
Frank concluded by referencing recent political uprisings in Senegal and Kenya, warning Akpabio to be cautious. He pointed to the election of a youthful opposition leader in Senegal and the ongoing protests in Kenya, where youths invaded the parliament to oppose an anti-people Finance Bill, resulting in violence and calls for President William Ruto’s resignation.
