The House of Representatives has described the criticism of the National Assembly by a former National Vice Chairman North-west of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Salihu Lukman as an attempt to Assert political relevance.
Lukman had in a statement earlier in Tuesday decried that the National Assembly has involuntarily submitted itself to the narcissistic control of the President Bola Tinubu.
He further lamented that the President and members of the executive arm seamlessly turned on the ‘gaslight’, which leaves members with no option but to believe and approve every proposal submitted even when they are injurious to public interests.
The Deputy Spokesperson of the House, Hon. Philip Agbese, while reacting through a statement issued Tuesday said Lukman’s accusations against the National Assembly are regrettable diversions from the genuine challenges facing our nation.
He stressed that Lukman who is known for his rigid and self-righteous stance, often positions himself as the sole arbiter of truth, dismissing alternative viewpoints.
Agbese noted: “Salihu Mohammed Lukman’s persistent attempts to assert relevance in the political sphere have led him to unfairly criticize the esteemed leadership of the National Assembly, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD.
“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.”
Agbese stressed that this inflexibility hinders meaningful dialogue and constructive engagement.
The House therefore urged Lukman to refrain from dragging Akpabio and Abbas into his disputes, as the National Assembly has no role in dispensing patronage to disgruntled political operatives.
Agbese added that Lukman should retrace his steps and embrace constructive criticism and restraint expected of an elder statesman.
He said: “Recognising 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.”
The Deputy Spokesperson maintained that the 10th Assembly remains committed to its constitutional mandate of holding the executive accountable while advocating for constructive engagement over unnecessary conflict.
He said disagreements with the executive are approached with patriotism and the nation’s best interests in mind.
Agbese emohasised that unproductive friction between branches of government serves no purpose and undermines the nation’s progress.