Akpabio Mocks Hunger Protesters: ‘We’ll Be Eating While They Protest’

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has made a controversial remark ahead of a planned nationwide hunger protest, scheduled to begin on Thursday. During a meeting on Tuesday with delegates from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in Rivers State, Akpabio seemingly mocked the protest organizers, suggesting that while they demonstrate, government officials will continue with their meals.

Akpabio, who appeared dissatisfied with the upcoming protest, commented on the political climate in the Niger Delta, stating that the people of the region are not interested in a change of regime. He referenced a statement by the NDDC’s Managing Director, affirming the region’s support for the current administration.

“All of us feel the impact of what is happening now. But we are aware it will be for a short while. MD, I want to thank you for what you said. You said we are not interested in regime change; let us own this government,” Akpabio said.

“Those who want to protest can protest, but let us be there eating — I must thank the Niger Delta,” he added, underscoring the region’s ongoing challenges due to oil and gas activities.

Akpabio also assured the delegates that the National Assembly is committed to addressing environmental issues in the Niger Delta, including oil spills and pollution, through necessary legislation and interventions.

“The specific issues faced by the Niger Delta must be contained in that communique because we are going to make it available to Mr. President,” he stated. “The ones that need legislation will come to us, the ones that need intervention will go to the NDDC, the ones that need more money will go to the president and commander-in-chief, and I assure you that those issues will be addressed.”

In response to the scheduled protests, Akpabio called for an emergency Senate meeting to be held on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, just one day before the protests are set to begin. The circular, signed by Senate Clerk Chinedu Akubueze, cited the meeting as being of “National Importance” but did not provide further details.

The emergency plenary session will take place at 12 noon on Wednesday, as the nation braces for the planned protests against hunger and economic hardship.