By Kayode Sesan
‘Unity Forum’ Senators on Wednesday staged a walk out as the Deputy President of the Senate, Ike Ekweremadu, presided over plenary in the absence of the President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, who was at the inauguration of the Federal Executive Council.
It was the first time Ekweremadu would preside over Senate since his controversial election on June 9. Among senators that staged a walkout were Ahmad Lawan, George Akume, Kabiru Marafa and Suleiman Hunkuyi.
Only 27 APC senators out of 60 attended plenary.
In a statement issued on behalf of the Unity Forum, Senator Hunkuyi alleged that the conspiracy against the All Progressives Congress had finally been consummated considering the handing over of the plenary to Ekweremadu by Saraki.
“It is a very sad development that must be denounced by all well meaning APC members and leaders alike. With this, Senators of the 8th Senate wish to announce that we shall cease to attend any sitting presided over by the PDP in an APC majority chamber of the 8th Senate.”
Reacting, spokesman of the Senate, Senator Sabi Abdullahi, said in a statement that the attention of the Senate had been drawn to a statement titled: “The conspiracy against the APC finally consummated.”
Abdullahi said: “The consummation of a conspiracy is the figment of the imagination of those behind the statement and should be disregarded by Nigerians.
“The Senate wish to reiterate its total commitment to providing robust legislative actions to support the change agenda of Mr. President as he strives to move Nigeria to a new height.
“The bi-partisan stand of the Senate has not and will not be an impediment in any way.
“The distinguished senators are happy with the inauguration of the Federal Executive Council and looks forward to having a harmonious, rancour-free but inclusive and participatory relationship that has at its heart the welfare of Nigerians.
“Finally, as we await the unveiling of the policy directions of Mr. President through the members of his Executive, the Senate is poised to work harder and better to support the emergence of a changed Nigeria of our collective dream.”
Abdullahi said it became necessary for him to clarify the situation because “the spurious statement by some people has come to our notice”.
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