Amnesty berates Akpabio over ‘reckless’ comment against Nigerians
Amnesty International Nigeria has criticised the President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, over his “insensitive and reckless” comment against Nigerians.
On Tuesday, Akpabio mocked Nigerians planning to participate in the nationwide protest against economic hardship in the country, saying that he and other members of the National Assembly would be “eating” while they (Nigerians) protest.
“Those who want to protest can protest, but let us be here eating,” Mr Akpabio remarked.
Akpabio made the statement at the Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities, Youths and Women Group Sensitisation Conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Part of the staement reads,“Amnesty International strongly condemns the insensitive and reckless comments attributed to the President of the Senate Godswill Obot Akpabio regarding plans of some Nigerians to peacefully protest current economic hardship,” the rights group said in a statement posted on X, Thursday.
“Taunting people seeking accountability is unacceptable: Millions of Nigerians are currently on the brink of starvation because of corruption and mismanagement, and mocking them is a stain on the exalted office held by Mr Akpabio. Harmful and irresponsible rhetorics from government officials — at this difficult time — must end,” it added.
A video clip of Akpabio making the remark has gone viral on social media.
