Nigerians are calling on the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, to resign following his controversial remark that he and others in government would be “eating” while Nigerians protest.
Akpabio made the statement on Tuesday during an event organized by the Niger Delta Development Commission in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. His comment, “Those who want to protest can protest, but let us be here eating,” has been widely criticized.
Amnesty International Nigeria condemned Akpabio’s remarks as “insensitive and reckless.” The rights group stated in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) that taunting people seeking accountability is unacceptable. They highlighted that millions of Nigerians are suffering due to corruption and mismanagement, and mocking their plight stains Akpabio’s office. The organization called for an end to such harmful and irresponsible rhetoric from government officials, especially during this difficult time.
On the first day of the nationwide protests against economic hardship, the hashtag #AkpabioMustGo trended extensively on X. Users expressed strong discontent, with one user @Asah_Mike saying, “He needs to go; it’s not negotiable. A strong message must be sent to that Senate seat.” Another user, @Galadima_Samaru, questioned why senators had not impeached him, and @Ibnwalee commented that Akpabio’s colleagues in the Senate are “mere toothless mannequins.” User @HelenOlotu described Akpabio as a “disgrace” to Nigeria, while @esho_emmy argued that he is unfit for the position of Senate president. Additionally, @bukola23 called for a more mature and circumspect leader.