Timi Frank, a former All Progressives Congress (APC) deputy spokesperson, has demanded the immediate resignation of Senate President Godswill Akpabio. This desire was made known by Frank, a supporter of PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, in a video message on August 9. By allowing senators to collect vacation allowances despite Nigeria’s economic difficulties, Frank charged Akpabio with weakening the country’s democracy.
He stated, “The spectacle we witnessed today on national television, where the Senate under Akpabio announced their vacation and funds were disbursed to senators, is a disgrace. This is a huge joke. This is why I am insisting that Senator Godswill Akpabio must resign as the Senate President.”
Frank criticized federal lawmakers for enjoying privileges while ordinary Nigerians face difficulties. He argued that senators taking vacations during challenging times for the nation was inappropriate and exploited their positions. Frank’s call for Akpabio’s resignation emanates from his belief that the Senate President’s actions have demeaned Nigeria’s democracy.
Akpabio, addressing his colleagues after screening and confirming President Bola Tinubu’s ministerial nominees, mentioned that the Clerk of the National Assembly had sent funds to their accounts for vacation. However, realizing he was on live television, he retracted his statement, saying prayers for a safe trip and return had been sent to their email addresses.
Frank’s demand for Akpabio’s resignation reflects growing concerns about Nigeria’s economic situation, with citizens struggling to make ends meet. The controversy over senators receiving vacation allowances has triggered public outrage, questioning the appropriateness of such benefits during a crisis. Frank’s call underscores the frustration and anger felt by Nigerians towards their leaders.
