Tinubu: Why Akpabio rejected acting President role – Rufai Oseni
Senate President Declines Title of Acting President Amid Leadership Questions
Rufai Oseni, the anchor of the Arise Television Morning Show, discussed Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s recent refusal to be addressed as Nigeria’s acting president while President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima were abroad.
Oseni articulated that Akpabio’s rejection of the title underscores his reluctance to assert the authority of the National Assembly as a co-equal branch of government. He made his remarks during a segment on the show on Monday, reviewing the implications of President Tinubu’s extended absence from the country.
The anchor expressed skepticism about the National Assembly’s ability to challenge presidential authority effectively, citing its previous endorsement of a state of emergency in Rivers State as evidence of a lack of independence.
Oseni questioned Akpabio’s capability to lead the legislature in a meaningful challenge to the executive branch. “So, if you think that this National Assembly will speak up and fight for you, it’s either you’re delusional or you don’t read the news,” he stated.
He highlighted that the same National Assembly had supported the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State to resolve a political conflict, raising concerns about its willingness to assert its powers.
Oseni also noted Akpabio’s swift move to distance himself from the title of acting president, prompted by comments from his political allies who labeled him as such during Tinubu and Shettima’s absence. “He needed to clarify that because he was already causing problems,” Oseni remarked.
The anchor concluded by reflecting on the broader implications for the separation of powers in Nigeria, suggesting that such dynamics are inconsistent with established democratic principles.
