In a provocative statement that has sparked public debate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, a former governor of Akwa Ibom State and current Senator representing the Niger Delta, has criticized the growing trend of politicians emerging from court rulings rather than popular elections, calling them "part of the problems of the Nigerian Senate."
Akpabio, who himself secured his Senate seat through a court verdict following a controversial election outcome, took aim at what he referred to as "court-declared senators" during a recent address in Abuja. In his comments, he stated that these individuals, while legally recognized as senators, lack the popular mandate that is essential for the functioning of the Senate as a true representative body.
"The judiciary should not be used as a shortcut to power. The Senate needs individuals who are truly elected by the people, not those who enter through the back door with court decisions," Akpabio remarked, emphasizing that this trend undermines the Senate's credibility and effectiveness in serving the people.
His statement comes in the wake of a growing number of cases in which election outcomes have been contested in court, with various candidates winning seats after legal battles. Akpabio's remarks have raised concerns among legal experts and political analysts, some of whom argue that the judicial system is becoming a key player in the legislative process, which could lead to a disconnect between the electorate and their representatives.
While his comments may be seen as critical of the judicial system, Akpabio's own rise to the Senate seat after a court ruling remains a central point of contention for many critics, given his background and previous political trajectory. Nonetheless, Akpabio continues to maintain that reforms are needed to restore the Senate's integrity and ensure it remains a true reflection of the people’s will.