By Lubem Gena, Abuja
Mr. Salihu Mohammed Lukman has been contained over what was termed as his “persistent attempts to assert relevance in the political sphere” which have led him to unfairly criticize the leadership of the National Assembly, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen.
A statement by Hon. Chief Dr. Philip Agbese, Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives which was obtained by our correspondent emphasised that “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. Instead of responsibly addressing national issues, Lukman focuses on undermining dedicated leaders who are committed to serving the nation.
“Known for his rigid and self-righteous stance, Lukman often positions himself as the sole arbiter of truth, dismissing alternative viewpoints. This inflexibility hinders meaningful dialogue and constructive engagement. We urge Lukman to refrain from dragging Senate President Akpabio and Speaker Abbas into his disputes, as the National Assembly has no role in dispensing patronage to disgruntled political operatives”, Hon. Agbese added.
Hon. Agbese asserted that the current assembly is committed discharging its duties with utmost responsibility and transparency including holding the Executive arm of government to account by using patriotic touch to drive the process.
“The 10th Assembly remains committed to its constitutional mandate of holding the executive accountable while advocating for constructive engagement over unnecessary conflict.
“Disagreements with the executive are approached with patriotism and the nation’s best interests in mind. Unproductive friction between branches of government serves no purpose and undermines our nation’s progress”, Hon. Agbese maintained.
He emphasised that The National Assembly is open to constructive criticisms and feedback from well-meaning Nigerians, as well as striving at every time to uphold her commitment to serving the nation with integrity and diligence.
He noted that, abysmal performance of the politician has seen him willingly relinquish his positions at his most recent offices which he held at the Progressives Governors Forum as the National Bive Chairman (North West).
“Recognizing Lukman’s consistent political failures, including his lackluster tenure in various positions and his difficulty in maintaining relationships within political circles, it is noteworthy that his two most recent engagements as Director-General of the Progressive Governors Forum and as National Vice Chairman (North-West) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) led to his ignoble resignation from these roles, acknowledging his limitations”.
He charged Lukman to retrace his steps and embrace constructive criticism and restraint expected of an elder statesman as such are the basic ingredients of decorum expected of a man of his stature.