The current Senate President of Nigeria, Godswill Akpabio, is facing criticism as he is accused of consistently violating the official starting time of the Senate plenary sessions.
According to the Senate Standing Rule, plenary sessions should commence at 10 a.m. every legislative day, but Akpabio’s habitual alleged tardiness has become a concern for senators and observers alike.
The recent observation by Premium Times indicates that the plenary sessions, which are supposed to start at 10 a.m., have consistently begun later due to Akpabio’s delayed arrival.
According to the report, this breach of the Senate Rules has raised eyebrows among senators, with some expressing their concerns privately about the extended waiting time.
The Senate Standing Rule, specifically Rule 8 sub-section (2), mandates the Senate to meet at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
However, a review of the Senate’s recent sittings reveals that the plenary sessions rarely commence at the stipulated time. Akpabio’s lateness to plenary sessions is said to have been a recurring issue since he assumed the position in June.
The situation has led to disruptions in the schedules of Senate committees, forcing them to postpone crucial meetings due to the extended duration of plenary sessions.
Despite the concerns raised by senators and the breach of the official rule, there has been no official statement or action from the Senate regarding Akpabio’s habitual tardiness.
The report noted that Akpabio’s penchant for arriving late to official functions dates back to his tenure as the governor of Akwa Ibom State from 2007 to 2015 and his subsequent role as the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs from 2019 to 2022.
Former aides have attested to his habit of keeping officials and dignitaries waiting for extended periods during his previous roles.
Critics argue that the consistent tardiness not only violates established rules but also reflects a lack of discipline and commitment to the responsibilities of the Senate President.
“For elected public officials and civil servants, particularly in the red chamber (Senate), indiscipline has become the most destructive obstacle to productivity and national development,” The President, Campaign for Democracy, Odili Peter, said.
