By, Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has strongly criticized the Senate leadership under Senator Godswill Akpabio for removing Senator Ali Ndume as Chief Whip, accusing the Senate of silencing dissenting voices and undermining democratic representation.
In a statement, CISLAC's Executive Director, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, condemned Ndume's removal, stating that it demonstrates a trend of silencing senators and preventing them from voicing the concerns of the Nigerian people. CISLAC likened the action to autocracy, stating that it undermines the constitutional role of senators as representatives of the people.
The organization highlighted Ndume's significant contributions to governance and emphasized that his removal reflects sycophancy and undermines the Senate's credibility as an independent body.
CISLAC also criticized the character and integrity of the Senate leadership, suggesting that their controversial backgrounds undermine democratic principles and threaten free speech and democratic consolidation.
CISLAC urged senators to speak out against the silencing of opposition voices, stating that democracy requires a thriving opposition. The organization emphasized that senators are elected to represent the people and must connect with them, speak for them, and voice their demands.
CISLAC expressed concern that opposition parties in the Senate have been silenced, allowing anti-people agendas and continued non-transparent governance in Nigeria.
In conclusion, CISLAC condemned the Senate leadership's actions, stating that silencing dissent and marginalizing outspoken senators risks rendering the Senate irrelevant.
The organization urged the Senate to acknowledge and respect Ndume's contributions to advocating for Nigerians rather than penalizing him.
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