Former Kaduna Senator, Shehu Sani has joined the list of Nigerians who have reacted to the gaffe suffered by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio at Monday’s plenary.
Kanyi Daily earlier reported that Akpabio was captured on camera in an embarrassing situation where he informed his colleagues that money had been sent to their accounts to enjoy their recess.
The red chamber on Monday, concluded screening and confirmation of President Bola Tinubu’s ministerial nominees.
The upper legislative chamber thereafter adjourned the plenary to September 26.
But, while addressing his colleagues before the motion for adjournment was moved, Akpabio said money has been sent by the clerk of the national assembly, to senators to “enjoy” their holidays.
“In order to enable all of us to enjoy our holidays, a token has been sent to our various accounts by the clerk of the national assembly,” he said.
In a quick reaction, Akpabio was informed by his colleagues that he was speaking before live television and press cameras.
Upon realising the magnitude of his remarks, the senate president swiftly beat a retreat.
“I withdraw that statement,” he said.
Since the video of the incident went viral on Wednesday, Nigerians took to social media to knock the senate president.
On his part, Sani, who is also a public commentator disclosed that crediting the accounts of legislators are done under the mute button.
He added that the “uncommon Senate President”, however, mistakenly pressed the alarm.
Crediting the Legislators accounts are done under mute button,the Uncommon Senate President mistakenly pressed the alarm.
— Senator Shehu Sani (@ShehuSani) August 9, 2023
The comment of the Senate president further raises questions about the allocation of funds to lawmakers.
The salaries and allowances of federal lawmakers are often shrouded in secrecy.
In other news, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Wednesday, said the country’s Super Falcons team will not receive their pay until the end of the ongoing 2023 Women’s World Cup tournament hosted by New Zealand and Australia.
NFF Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire disclosed in an interview with newsmen.