Human rights activist and legal practitioner, Deji Adeyanju, has criticized the ongoing rift between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing it as an unnecessary distraction from the pressing economic challenges Nigerians are currently facing.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Adeyanju expressed disappointment that the Senate is focused on internal disputes instead of addressing the nation’s worsening economic conditions. He noted that both Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan, along with other lawmakers, failed to speak out during crucial debates on policies that have significantly increased the cost of living.
According to him, the Senate’s inability to challenge key government decisions, such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the hike in electricity tariffs, has deepened economic hardship across the country. He also faulted opposition lawmakers for not mounting a strong resistance to these policies.
“The ongoing conflict between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan is a distraction from the real issues affecting Nigerians,” Adeyanju stated. “People are struggling with high electricity tariffs, rising taxes, and worsening living conditions, yet the Senate remains preoccupied with personal conflicts.”
He criticized lawmakers for their silence when policies that directly impacted citizens were being introduced, pointing out that many failed to object to decisions that have now led to increased financial burdens on the public.
Adeyanju also reacted to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims, urging her to present evidence if she has been unfairly treated. However, he stressed that the more pressing issue is the need for governance that prioritizes citizens’ welfare.
“If Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan believes she has been mistreated, she should provide proof, but the real focus should be on addressing the difficulties Nigerians are going through,” he said.
Beyond economic concerns, Adeyanju highlighted other pressing matters, such as the case of Sunday Jackson, a young man in Adamawa facing a death sentence, arguing that such issues deserve greater attention than political disputes.
“Nigeria is facing serious challenges, including cases like that of Sunday Jackson in Adamawa, who is on death row. These are the kinds of discussions that should take center stage, not political feuds,” he added.
He also criticized the government’s tax policies, warning that imposing heavier taxes on struggling businesses would further harm the economy. Instead, he advocated for tax incentives that would support business growth and create employment opportunities.
“The government should be creating a favorable environment for businesses to thrive, not overburdening them with taxes,” he argued.
Adeyanju called on lawmakers to shift their focus from personal grievances to policy-driven solutions that would help ease the suffering of Nigerians.