Amid growing political discourse and criticisms surrounding the leadership of the National Assembly, a prominent Nigerian voice has stepped forward to defend Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President of Nigeria. In a recent Twitter post, the individual, who identifies as ‘Ben Murray Bruce’, expressed strong support for Akpabio, describing him as a man of “unimpeachable good character.”
“I know Senator Godswill Akpabio personally and intimately. He is a man of unimpeachable good character, and both the South-South and Nigeria are fortunate to have him at the helm of affairs at the National Assembly at this delicate stage in our national growth,” the tweet read.
The sentiment echoes broader calls for stability in Nigeria’s political institutions, especially the National Assembly, as the nation navigates a critical phase in its development. The tweet continued to praise Akpabio, asserting that despite numerous investigations, both from independent agencies and political adversaries, he has emerged “clean as a whistle.”
The tweet also took aim at the ongoing concerns regarding corruption within the political class. Akpabio, who has faced multiple inquiries into his tenure as governor of Akwa Ibom State, has consistently maintained his innocence. To this, Ben Murray Bruce noted, “On the issue of corruption, here we have a man who has been investigated in and out by independent investigative agencies and friends and foes alike, yet he has come out clean as a whistle.”
As Nigeria faces a period of political uncertainty, the tweet emphasized the need for caution in addressing the nation’s leadership. “Nigeria needs stability and men of ability, and it behoves us as a nation to tread with caution at this critical time of our national life. Institutions such as the Legislature should not be trifled with because of partisan considerations,” Ben Murray Bruce wrote, underscoring the importance of upholding the integrity of national institutions.
In an implicit reference to the divisive nature of Nigerian politics, he added, “I will not stand idly by while some persons try, both home and abroad, to destroy an institution I was once proudly a part of.”
The tweet concluded with a message of national pride, as Ben Murray Bruce affirmed his commitment to the country: “I am a Nigerian, who is proud of Nigeria, and will give my all to protect and project my country to the world. I give him my right hand of fellowship and stand firmly with him. Innuendo, hearsay, and dog whistles will always come. But they can never be so powerful that they will take preeminence over facts.”
In a parallel vein, popular Nigerian comedian and skit maker Mr. Macaroni shared his thoughts on the ongoing political discourse via his Twitter handle. In a picture posted alongside his tweet, Mr. Macaroni voiced his own support for Akpabio, adding his weight to the growing chorus of voices advocating for unity and the preservation of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
As the nation grapples with issues of governance, corruption, and national stability, it remains clear that figures such as Akpabio will continue to be focal points for both support and criticism. However, for many, including Ben Murray Bruce and Mr. Macaroni, the focus should remain on facts, national unity, and the importance of allowing institutions to function without undue political interference.
