CISLAC Blasts Senate Leadership for Silencing Senators and Undermining Democracy

Bilkisu Adejoh

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has issued a scathing critique of the Senate’s recent actions, accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of stifling dissent and undermining democratic principles.

The removal of Senator Ali Ndume as Chief Whip has sparked accusations of autocracy within the Senate.

In a statement signed by CISLAC’s Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organization condemned Ndume’s ousting, suggesting it reflects a troubling trend of silencing senators who voice the concerns of the Nigerian people.

“The Senate’s actions undermine the constitutional role of its members as representatives of the people at the highest levels of government,” CISLAC asserted.

Highlighting Ndume’s significant contributions to the Senate and governance, CISLAC argued that his removal without a violation of Senate rules or the constitution demonstrates sycophancy and damages the Senate’s credibility as an independent body.

CISLAC raised concerns about the Senate leadership’s alignment with executive policies, portraying the Senate as a mere extension of the executive branch.

CISLAC criticized the character and integrity of the current Senate leadership, suggesting that their controversial backgrounds threaten democratic principles and free speech.

“They have silenced, intimidated, and harassed opposition senators, forcing them to keep quiet. This is not democratic, and it’s not acceptable,” said Rafsanjani.

He emphasized the importance of a vibrant Senate that speaks for the people, especially in times of national crisis.

CISLAC Boss called on all senators to fulfill their duty of holding the central government accountable, irrespective of party loyalty, to ensure the Senate remains a check on government excesses.

Rafsanjani warned that silencing dissent and marginalizing outspoken senators like Ndume and Abdul Ahmed Ningi risks rendering the Senate irrelevant.

While calling for the recognition and respect of senators’ contributions, he urged the Senate to uphold democratic values and represent the interests of the Nigerian people effectively.