The Presidency has dismissed social media reports of an orchestrated plot to impeach Godswill Akpabio as President of the Senate.
Earlier, Chairman of Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Yemi Adaramodu, described as “baseless and unfounded”, reports that security agents were deployed to the National Assembly complex amid alleged move by some aggrieved Northern Senators dissatisfied with President Bola Tinubu to remove Akpabio from office.
Following the rumour, Akpabio directed the immediate investigation into the reports. He referred the matter to the Senate Committee on Special Duties chaired by Shehu Kaka.
Reacting to the report in a statement, Senator Lado said the Presidency was committed to a harmonious relationship with the parliament. He assured Nigerians that the legislature would be allowed to function freely without undue interference from the executive arm of government.
The statement reads in part: “The attention of this office has been drawn to online reports that security agents have been deployed to prevent senators from carrying out their legislative duties, specifically in relation to an alleged impeachment of the Senate President. I wish to categorically state that these reports are baseless and should be disregarded as there is no discord within the rank and file of the senators. The legislative body remains united in its commitment to the advancement of Nigeria’s democracy.
“The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in line with his dedication to a harmonious working relationship among the senators, recognises the critical role of the senate in driving legislative progress. His Excellency remains committed to ensuring that this collaboration is based on mutual respect, dialogue, and shared goals for peace, progress and prosperity of all Nigerians.
“The Senate continues to function freely and without interference, and any security presence within the National Assembly Complex is for the routine safety and protection of legislators and staff. I therefore urge the public to disregard such unfounded publications which could undermine the integrity of the legislature.”