The Nigerian Senate has strongly refuted recent comments made by Pastor Tunde Bakare regarding the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing them as “misleading and contemptuous.”
Bakare, the serving overseer of The Citadel Global Community Church, had on Sunday criticized the Senate for its role in ratifying the emergency rule declared by President Bola Tinubu in Rivers State and condemned the suspension of the Kogi Central senator. He further accused the executive and legislative arms of government of turning Nigeria into a “mafia state.”
“It is clear that our so-called leaders are determined to turn Nigeria into a mafia state,” Bakare said, denouncing what he termed “institutional immorality” in both the executive and legislature.
However, the Senate responded on Tuesday through Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, stating that Bakare’s comments “crossed the line” from criticism to harmful misinformation.
“The attention of the Senate of the 10th National Assembly has been drawn to recent public remarks made by Pastor Tunde Bakare… filled with sweeping generalisations and disparaging commentary aimed at the institution of the National Assembly,” the statement read.
“While we respect the right of every citizen to express views, we are compelled to respond when such commentary risks eroding public trust in our democratic institutions,” Adaramodu said.
He acknowledged Bakare’s reputation as both a cleric and political figure but described the remarks as rhetoric “laced with contempt and unsubstantiated claims,” noting that the comments were not constructive and veered into political posturing.
“While he remains a respected cleric, his political and legal background must also be considered. His comments are not only personal opinions but carry weighty political implications,” the Senate spokesperson added.
Adaramodu pointed out that Bakare, as a trained lawyer, should be aware of the legal boundaries concerning public commentary, especially on matters that are sub judice.
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He also rebuffed insinuations that the National Assembly should be in open conflict with the executive, arguing that “performative hostility” is not the true measure of checks and balances.
“The true test of institutional maturity lies not in grandstanding but in principled, results-driven engagement,” he said.
On Bakare’s reference to the “infamous third-term agenda,” Adaramodu stated that the 10th National Assembly has never been approached by the executive with any unconstitutional request.
“To use outdated and unrelated political references as a benchmark for current legislative performance is both flawed and misleading,” he said.
He concluded by expressing optimism that Bakare might, in time, recognise the actions of the 10th National Assembly as being in the best interest of Nigerians.
“As with past assemblies he once criticised and now praises, we are confident that Pastor Bakare may eventually acknowledge our efforts to uphold the constitution and serve the people,” he added.