In an exchange, the All Progressives Congress (APC) delivered a rebuke to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as tensions escalate over calls for the resignation of Senate President Akpabio. The APC lambasted the PDP, branding them a “massaging balm for falsehood”.
The accusations stem from the PDP’s call for the resignation of Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, over allegations of budget padding totaling a staggering N3.7 trillion.
The Senate’s spokesperson, Yemi Adaramodu, denounced the PDP’s demands, labeling them as “chicanery” and a “sordid attempt to hoodwink the unsuspecting public.” He defended Akpabio, stating unequivocally that he would not resign in the face of what the Senate deemed baseless allegations.
The saga began when PDP Senator Abdul Ningi of Bauchi Central raised concerns over a purported discrepancy between the budget passed by the National Assembly and the one being executed by the Presidency. Ningi’s claims ignited a firestorm, leading to a showdown at the Senate plenary where he was tasked with defending his allegations. However, the outcome saw Ningi handed a three-month suspension for what the Senate deemed as tarnishing its image with unfounded accusations.
Undeterred by the Senate’s decision, the PDP doubled down on its stance, demanding an independent investigation into the alleged budget padding and urging Akpabio to step aside to facilitate the process. The party also called for Akpabio to face scrutiny from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged financial misconduct during his tenure as governor of Akwa Ibom State.
In response, Adaramodu dismissed the PDP’s demands as ludicrous, painting the party as purveyors of falsehoods and moral bankruptcy. He stood firm in his support of Akpabio, signaling the Senate’s unwavering stance amidst the mounting pressure.
Amidst the chaos, a new development emerged as Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua of Katsina Central ascended to the position of Chairman of the Northern Senators’ Forum, replacing the embattled Ningi. Yar’Adua’s appointment came as a result of unanimous endorsement from senators across the North, signaling a shift in leadership dynamics within the forum.
