Human rights activist and lawyer, Comrade Deji Adeyanju, has criticized the ongoing rift between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing it as a needless distraction from the pressing economic difficulties Nigerians are facing.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Friday, Adeyanju condemned the Senate’s preoccupation with personal conflicts instead of addressing urgent national issues.
He noted that both Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan, along with other lawmakers, remained silent during crucial debates on policies that have worsened the cost-of-living crisis.
According to Adeyanju, the Senate’s failure to challenge the Tinubu administration’s controversial policies—such as subsidy removal and increased electricity tariffs—has contributed to the economic hardship in the country.
He also criticized opposition lawmakers for not taking a strong stance against these policies.
“The ongoing feud between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan is nothing but a distraction,” Adeyanju stated. “While Nigerians struggle with skyrocketing electricity tariffs, rising taxes, and economic hardship, the Senate is consumed with internal grievances.”
He pointed out that during major policy decisions—such as the over 300% increase in electricity tariffs and the removal of fuel subsidies—these lawmakers failed to raise objections, leaving ordinary Nigerians to bear the consequences.
Adeyanju also questioned the timing of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations, urging her to present credible evidence if she has been wronged.
However, he stressed that the primary focus should be on addressing the suffering of Nigerians.
“If Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan believes she has been harassed, she must provide evidence. But more importantly, the Senate must stop being distracted by personal conflicts and focus on governance,” he said.
Beyond economic issues, Adeyanju highlighted other pressing concerns, such as the case of Sunday Jackson, a young man in Adamawa facing a death sentence, arguing that such cases deserve more attention than political squabbles.
“There are far more urgent issues at hand, such as the plight of this young man in Adamawa. These are the matters that should dominate national discussions,” he added.
Adeyanju also criticized the government’s approach to taxation, arguing that excessive tax hikes on struggling businesses will only further damage the economy.
Instead, he called for tax breaks to support businesses and stimulate economic growth.
“Taxation alone cannot solve our economic problems,” he asserted. “Rather than burdening businesses with additional taxes, the government should be providing incentives to encourage growth.”
He urged lawmakers to shift their focus from personal disputes to policy-driven solutions that will alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.
