Ahead of the hunger protest, which is set to commence on Thursday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has insulted organisers for staging the rally while they continue to eat.
Akpabio made the disclosure on Tuesday while speaking to Niger Delta Development Commission delegates in Rivers State.
The Senate President, who appears to be upset over the planned protest, stated that the Niger-Delta people are not prepared for a regime change, citing the commission’s MD’s comments.
“All of us feel the impact of what is happening now. But we are aware it will be for a short while. MD, I want to thank you for what you said. You said we are not interested in regime change; let us own this government.
“Those who want to protest can protest, but let us be there eating—II must thank the Niger Delta.
“We acknowledge the fact that the impact of oil and gas activities in our region has done immeasurable damage to our people,” he stressed.
He stated that the National Assembly is prepared to assist with legislation to reduce oil spills and environmental damage in the region.
“The specific issues faced by the Niger Delta must be contained in that communiqué because we are going to make it available to Mr. President.
“The ones that need legislation will come to us, the ones that need intervention will go to NDDC, and the ones that need more money will go to the president and commander-in-chief, and I assure you that those issues will be addressed,” he maintained.
Akpabio ordered an emergency Senate meeting owing to the upcoming protest, which is slated for August 1-10.
According to a circular issued by the Clerk, Chinedu Akubueze, on Monday, the meeting is of “national importance.”
The internal circular did not provide additional information on the emergency meeting.
The meeting will take place on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, one day before the nationwide demonstration against hunger and misery.
The memo wrote, “Dear Distinguished Senators, the President of the Senate, His Excellency, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON, has directed that an emergency plenary sitting of the Senate be convened as follows: Date: Wednesday, July 31st, 2024; Time: 12 noon. ”
