Amnesty International Nigeria has criticised the President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, over his “insensitive and reckless” comment against Nigerians.
Mr Akpabio, on Tuesday, mocked Nigerians planning to participate in the nationwide protest against economic hardship in the country, saying that he and others would be “eating” while they (Nigerians) protest.
Mr Akpabio stated this at the Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities, Youths and Women Group Sensitisation Conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
“Those who want to protest can protest, but let us be here eating,” Mr Akpabio remarked.
The event, organised by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), was broadcast live on Arise TV.
A video clip of Mr Akpabio making the remark has gone viral on social media.
“Amnesty International strongly condemns the insensitive and reckless comments attributed to the President of the Senate Godswill Obot Akpabio regarding plans of some Nigerians to peacefully protest current economic hardship,” the rights group said in a statement posted on X, Thursday.
“Taunting people seeking accountability is unacceptable: Millions of Nigerians are currently on the brink of starvation because of corruption and mismanagement, and mocking them is a stain on the exalted office held by Mr Akpabio. Harmful and irresponsible rhetorics from government officials — at this difficult time — must end,” it added.
Mr Akpabio, a former governor of Akwa Ibom State, is known for often making controversial and embarrassing remarks over serious national issues.
