Senate President Godswill Akpabio has had enough of the noise. In a bold move, he’s calling out critics and commentators who weigh in on Senate affairs without a clue about how things actually work. His message? Get your facts straight before you speak.
Akpabio’s warning came during a meeting with the Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders Forum in Abuja. The timing couldn’t be more relevant, as it follows the recent suspension of Kogi Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for breaking Senate rules—a decision Akpabio says had full backing from lawmakers.
Let’s break it down.
The Problem: Uninformed Opinions Everywhere
Akpabio isn’t mincing words. He’s concerned about the flood of uninformed takes on TV, social media, and beyond. According to him, too many people are commenting on Senate procedures without understanding the basics.
“It’s like a herbalist trying to quote the Bible,” he quipped, adding, “or someone who knows nothing about Islam interpreting the Qur’an.” His point? If you don’t know the rules, you shouldn’t be rewriting them in public debates.
The Solution: Know the Rules Before You Speak
Akpabio’s advice is simple but powerful: Do your homework. Before jumping into debates about Senate affairs, take the time to understand parliamentary rules. Misquoting or misinterpreting these rules only adds to the confusion and spreads misinformation.
“We advise members of the public to stop misquoting the rules of the Senate,” he said. “Seek the facts before making public statements.”
Why This Matters
The Senate isn’t just a political body—it’s a complex institution with its own set of procedures and protocols. When people comment without understanding these nuances, it undermines the integrity of the legislative process. Akpabio’s call for informed discourse is a reminder that public debate should be rooted in knowledge, not assumptions.
The Bigger Picture
This isn’t just about one senator’s suspension or a single warning. It’s about setting a standard for how we discuss politics. In an age of instant opinions and viral hot takes, Akpabio’s message is a timely nudge to pause, reflect, and get the facts straight.
So, the next time you’re tempted to weigh in on Senate affairs, remember: a little research goes a long way.
