Hold Your Lawmakers Accountable, Akpabio Tells Nigerians

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has urged Nigerians to actively engage their elected representatives and hold them accountable, stressing that democracy works best when citizens participate in the legislative process.

Akpabio made the call while addressing lawmakers at the resumption of plenary in the Nigerian Senate after a short adjournment that allowed committees to carry out legislative duties.

He described the Senate as a “workshop of solutions,” noting that the chamber focuses on addressing national challenges through policy and legislation rather than political rhetoric.

Encouraging citizens to be more involved in governance, Akpabio said Nigerians should bring their concerns directly to their representatives so that public grievances can be transformed into policy actions.

The former governor of Akwa Ibom State also highlighted the importance of the national budget before the National Assembly of Nigeria, describing it as a key policy document that reflects the country’s priorities and development goals.

“The Senate is not merely a theatre of debate; it is a workshop of solutions. Where social media magnifies the noise of the moment, the Senate addresses the substance of the problem. Where the digital arena stirs emotion, the legislative process pursues resolution.

“I therefore encourage Nigerians everywhere: engage your representatives. Bring your concerns to those whom you have entrusted with the responsibility of speaking on your behalf. For it is through the instrument of representation that grievances are transformed into policy and concerns into action.” He said.

Akpabio further urged lawmakers to place national interest above political differences as the legislature resumes deliberations on critical national issues, including the 2026 Appropriation Bill and proposed constitutional amendments.