By Israel Bulus, Kaduna
The Alliance of Northern Development (AND) has cautioned against what it described as a growing trend of disrespect and unrestrained attacks directed at the President of the Senate, Chief Godswill Akpabio, warning that such conduct undermines Nigeria’s democratic values and weakens public trust in national institutions.
In a statement signed on Sunday by its National Chairman, Bagudu Joseph and issued to newsmen, the group expressed deep concern over what it called the “reckless use of social media platforms and public commentary” to malign the person and office of the Senate President.
According to the statement, the Senate Presidency is not just a political position but “a trust of history” that represents the collective integrity of the legislature, the voice of the people, and the guardian of Nigeria’s constitutional order.
“Any attempt to trivialize or demean that office is, by extension, an attack on the nation itself,” the statement read. “Democracy thrives on freedom of expression, but freedom must walk hand in hand with responsibility.”
The Alliance noted that the misuse of public platforms for personal or political grievances has become a growing concern, saying the trend promotes misinformation and distracts leaders from their national duties.
“When private frustrations are converted into public theatre, it degrades our values and misleads the unsuspecting public,” the group warned.
“This culture of unrestrained abuse must not be mistaken for activism; it is recklessness masquerading as free speech.”
While acknowledging the right of citizens to hold leaders accountable, the group maintained that such criticism should be constructive, fact-based, and devoid of malice.
It commended Senate President Akpabio for maintaining composure and restraint in the face of repeated provocations, describing his silence as a mark of true leadership and maturity.
“True leadership is not proven by reaction but by restraint,” the statement added. “We applaud him for leading with dignity and remaining focused on national responsibilities.”
The Alliance reaffirmed its confidence in Akpabio’s leadership and praised President Bola Tinubu for entrusting national responsibilities to “experienced statesmen” capable of strengthening democratic institutions.
The group also appealed to the media to exercise professionalism and patriotism in their reportage, urging journalists to focus on issues that unite the country rather than those that inflame divisions.
“Headlines should heal, not harm; reports should clarify, not confuse,” the statement said.
“A society that destroys its symbols of authority in the name of free speech only prepares the ground for chaos.”
It further called on Nigerians, especially opinion leaders and online commentators, to draw a line between responsible criticism and malicious propaganda, insisting that respect for leadership and democratic offices remains the foundation of national unity.
“The Senate Presidency is a sacred institution within the framework of our democracy. It deserves respect, not ridicule,” the group concluded.
