The Nigerian Senate has urged protesting government contractors to remain calm, assuring them that their outstanding debts will be settled soon. The contractors had earlier besieged the National Assembly, disrupting access and delaying plenary, over unpaid debts for executed projects. Senate President Godswill Akpabio disclosed that the upper chamber had approved domestic borrowing to enable the Federal Government clear the backlog of payments, totaling ₦1.150 trillion.
The Senate’s approval is in line with President Tinubu’s request for a fresh ₦1.15trn domestic loan to fund the 2025 budget deficit. Akpabio appealed to the contractors to be patient, giving the Federal Government time to resolve the issue. The blockade by the contractors had created tension among lawmakers, highlighting the need for a swift resolution to the matter.
In a related development, the Senate announced plans to debate recent comments attributed to former US President Donald Trump, alleging a Christian genocide in Nigeria. Akpabio stated that he would await the Federal Government’s official response before making any comment on the issue, citing sensitive diplomatic considerations. He emphasized the need for caution in public discourse, urging Nigerians and the media to avoid spreading misinformation or inflammatory narratives that could jeopardize national unity.
Akpabio also called on the Cybercrime Unit to identify and prosecute those responsible for spreading fake news about the Senate and its leadership. He emphasized that Nigeria’s internal challenges must be viewed from all perspectives, underscoring the need for peace and unity in a multi-ethnic society like Nigeria. The Deputy Senate President, however, retorted by asking Akpabio if he is afraid of Trump, reminding that Nigeria is a sovereign country.
The Senate’s decision to approve domestic borrowing and address the contractors’ grievances is a significant step towards resolving the issue. The development highlights the need for effective communication and swift action to address the concerns of various stakeholders. As the Senate prepares to debate the comments attributed to Trump, it is essential to prioritize national unity and avoid spreading misinformation. The outcome of the debate and the subsequent actions taken by the Senate will be closely watched, as Nigeria continues to navigate its internal challenges and maintain its position on the global stage.