Nigerians are vehemently calling for the resignation of Senate President Godswill Akpabio following his controversial remarks suggesting that government officials would be “eating” while citizens protest.
During an event organized by the Niger Delta Development Commission in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Akpabio’s comment drew widespread backlash. “Those who want to protest can protest, but let us be here eating,” he said on Tuesday. His statement, perceived as dismissive of the economic hardships faced by many Nigerians, has ignited outrage across the country.
Amnesty International Nigeria condemned Akpabio’s remarks as “insensitive and reckless” in a statement released on Thursday. The human rights organization criticized the Senate President for what it described as a mocking attitude towards those struggling with severe economic challenges.
“Amnesty International strongly condemns the insensitive and reckless comments attributed to the President of the Senate, Godswill Obot Akpabio, regarding plans of some Nigerians to peacefully protest current economic hardship,” the statement read on X (formerly Twitter). “Taunting people seeking accountability is unacceptable. Millions of Nigerians are currently on the brink of starvation because of corruption and mismanagement, and mocking them is a stain on the exalted office held by Mr. Akpabio. Harmful and irresponsible rhetoric from government officials — at this difficult time — must end,” it added.
As public discontent grows, Akpabio faces mounting pressure to step down from his position amid calls for greater sensitivity and accountability from Nigeria’s leadership.
During the first day of the nationwide protest against economic hardship in Nigeria, the hashtag #AkpabioMustGo trended throughout the whole on X.
“He needs to go; it’s not negotiable. A strong message must be sent to that Senate seat,” said an X user @Asah_Mike.
“Why senators haven’t impeached him from that seat still baffles me,” said another X user, @Galadima_Samaru.
“They’re mere toothless mannequins. They don’t have what it takes,” another X user, @Ibnwalee, responded, apparently referring to Mr Akpabio’s colleagues in the Senate.
