Senator Ahmed Lawan Urges Akpabio to Ignore ‘Rubber Stamp’ Critics, Support Tinubu’s Administration
Former Senate President, Senator Ahmed Lawan, has urged the President of the 10th Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, to disregard criticisms labeling the National Assembly as a “rubber stamp,” and instead focus on working harmoniously with President Bola Tinubu’s administration for the good of the country.
Lawan made this passionate appeal during a Senate plenary session, where he emphasized the need for continued collaboration between the legislative and executive arms of government, describing such synergy as essential for national progress.
“Mr. President, nobody should discourage you when you work with Mr. President or with the executive arm of government seamlessly. Some will tell you that you are a rubber stamp,” Lawan said.
Reflecting on his own time as Senate President of the 9th Assembly, Lawan noted that similar criticisms were leveled against his leadership, but he insisted that the so-called ‘rubber stamp’ approach led to significant legislative accomplishments.
“They called us rubber stamp, but this is what we have produced. If we had listened to them those largely mischievous people we wouldn’t have achieved half of what we did,” he remarked while referencing the legacy report of the 9th Senate, which included numerous passed bills and impactful reforms.
Lawan urged the current Senate to remain steadfast in supporting the executive, arguing that effective governance cannot thrive amid constant hostility and division.
He added that even when presidential decisions have unintended consequences, leaders should offer support and guidance rather than retreat or oppose for opposition’s sake.
“Any president that takes a decision does so in the interest of his people. Sometimes, you get unintended consequences, and that is the time the president needs everybody not people running away,” Lawan stated.
He expressed hope that Nigeria would soon overcome its present challenges, citing the importance of unity and continuity in leadership.
He also extended condolences over the recent death of a former Nigerian president, praising him as a man of integrity and a “rare gem.”
On a forward-looking note, Lawan encouraged Akpabio and the current Senate to strive to surpass the achievements of the 9th Assembly.
He applauded Akpabio for maintaining a cordial relationship with the presidency, especially in areas such as the full funding of constituency projects.
“You have a template to beat the record we set,” he said. “Under your leadership, the Senate has enjoyed a very courteous relationship with the presidency, and that’s commendable.”
Lawan concluded with optimism that, by the end of President Tinubu’s tenure, Nigeria would be on a more prosperous path and that the Senate would be celebrated for playing a vital role in that transformation.
