“Don’t You Have Daughters?” – Bode George Criticises National Assembly Over Natasha’s Recall

LAGOS, NIGERIA – Chief Olabode George, a prominent leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has strongly condemned the ongoing recall process of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

In a fiery statement, the respected politician expressed his outrage over how the Senate and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) have handled the accusations made by Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, calling it an embarrassment to Nigeria.

George pointed out that the persecution of the embattled senator is a blot on the country’s image, questioning the fairness and integrity of the process.

He expressed disbelief at the treatment of Akpoti-Uduaghan, emphasizing that such actions will only discourage women from seeking political office.

“I have daughters, and I would never allow anyone to treat them the way they are treating Natasha. This is why many women are afraid to run for elective positions”, George stated, underlining the broader implications of this injustice on women in politics.

He also criticised the inconsistency in INEC’s actions, claiming it undermines public trust in the nation’s democracy. “The inconsistency in INEC’s position will continue to erode public confidence in our democracy.

“This is no longer a democracy; it signals what’s coming in 2027,” George lamented, pointing to what he perceives as a dangerous trend for the country.

George expressed further frustration over the way Akpoti-Uduaghan is being persecuted and victimised, questioning why her allegations were not properly investigated by an independent body. Instead, she was suspended and now faces the threat of recall using state machinery.

“What is the meaning of this nonsense? Are we this cheap as a country? What type of democracy is this?” George questioned.

He also took issue with the recent flip-flop by INEC regarding the recall process, saying, “Initially, INEC had stated that the process did not adhere to established regulations, but within 24 hours, the commission’s stance had shifted, now stating it would scrutinize the list of signatories submitted for the recall.

“Seriously? Does this make sense to anyone? Why the inconsistency?” George demanded.

The PDP leader also pointed to the apparent collusion against Akpoti-Uduaghan in the Senate, asking, “Don’t these Senators have daughters?”

He questioned the priorities of the Senate, especially in light of Nigeria’s ongoing issues with insecurity, corruption, and poverty.

“With all the pressing issues facing the country, is Natasha’s situation the most urgent right now?” George asked.

He expressed unwavering support for Akpoti-Uduaghan, a strong member of the PDP, vowing that her party would not tolerate the humiliation she is facing.

George also took a shot at the National Assembly’s procedural flaws, citing the constitution’s requirement for two-thirds approval from both the Senate and the House of Representatives to declare a state of emergency, and questioning the legitimacy of a voice vote.

He praised Senators like Tambuwal, Dickson, and Abaribe for standing up against the perceived illegality and injustice in the Senate.