The House of Representatives has issued a strong warning to Salihu Lukman, the former National Vice Chairman (North-West) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), advising him to stop his constant criticism of the National Assembly. Instead, they urge him to focus on issues of national importance.
This warning follows a statement from Lukman on July 2, where he labeled the 10th Assembly as a failure. In his statement, Lukman criticized the National Assembly for its lack of strong voices, allowing the President and the executive branch to make poor decisions without opposition. He cited examples such as the sudden end of the petroleum subsidy and the floating of the naira exchange rate without clear plans.
Lukman remarked, “Partly because of the faint or almost complete absence of courageous voices in the National Assembly, the President and the members of the executive body of government are practically getting away with virtually every wrong decision that is injurious to the wellbeing of Nigerian citizens.”
The House did not take kindly to these remarks. Mr. Philip Agbese, the deputy spokesman of the House, responded by calling Lukman’s comments an attempt to gain political relevance. Agbese advised Lukman to offer constructive criticism and to act with the restraint expected of an elder statesman.
Agbese said, “Lukman is advised to retrace his steps and embrace constructive criticism and restraint expected of an elder statesman.”
Agbese further stated that Lukman’s accusations are unfounded and divert attention from the real challenges facing Nigeria. He criticized Lukman for undermining the efforts of the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas. According to Agbese, Lukman’s rigid stance and self-righteous attitude hinder meaningful dialogue.
“Lukman’s baseless accusations against the National Assembly are regrettable diversions from the genuine challenges facing our nation. Those who thrive on anarchy and discord are the true obstacles to national cohesion and progress,” Agbese said.
Agbese also questioned Lukman’s track record in public office, highlighting his political failures and strained relationships in political circles. He suggested that these failures contributed to Lukman’s resignation from key positions within the APC.
Agbese emphasized that the 10th Assembly is committed to its constitutional duties and seeks to hold the executive accountable while promoting constructive engagement. He stated that the National Assembly welcomes constructive criticism from Nigerians and remains dedicated to serving the nation with integrity.
“The National Assembly is open to constructive criticisms and feedback from well-meaning Nigerians, as we uphold our commitment to serving the nation with integrity and diligence,” Agbese added.