The aftermath of Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s remarks about vacation allowances continues to stir debate and reactions from various quarters. Concerns have emerged that the Presidency is displeased with the negative perception created by Akpabio’s comments and is reportedly considering a replacement for him. Close associates of President Bola Tinubu are said to be involved in a “secretly guided but desperate search” for a potential successor.
Akpabio’s announcement during a Senate session that the Clerk of the Senate would send a token to senators for their vacation allowances sparked controversy and criticism. The incident led to a backlash as some Nigerians questioned the senators’ use of public funds for vacation. The Presidency reportedly expressed its displeasure, with Presidential Spokesman Ajuri Ngelale distancing the President from Akpabio’s comments and calling for greater sensitivity.
Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume has hinted at potential action against Akpabio for his disclosure about the vacation allowances. Ndume criticized Akpabio’s public disclosure, suggesting that it contributed to negative sentiments and attacks on senators. He defended the N2 million allowance, comparing it to a customary annual leave bonus or allowance for employees.
Despite the criticism, a group of former and serving National Assembly (NASS) members under the banner of the Leadership Council of The Initiatives have expressed support for Akpabio. They asserted that the announcement of recess allowances was appropriate, highlighting that senators deserve their wages and allowances. The group clarified that senators had already received the allowances before Akpabio’s statement.
Hon Eseme Eyiboh, a member of the Leadership Council, defended Akpabio’s intentions and highlighted the challenges senators face, including delayed salaries and withheld capital releases. Eyiboh emphasized that the “token” mentioned by Akpabio was an intervention to ameliorate potential suffering caused by delayed payments.
Despite the ongoing debate and criticism, the situation has raised questions about the Senate’s leadership and communication ethics, as well as broader issues of accountability and transparency in government.