••Lawmakers Defend 10th Assembly, Criticize Cleric’s “Sweeping Generalizations” on Rivers State Emergency and Performance
By John Audu
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ABUJA – The Senate has issued a firm rejoinder to Pastor Tunde Bakare, urging the prominent cleric to refrain from directing his frustrations towards the 10th National Assembly. Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, released a statement responding to what he termed Bakare’s recent “sweeping generalizations and disparaging commentary” aimed at the legislative body.
While acknowledging the right of all citizens to express their views, Senator Adaramodu stated that the Senate felt compelled to respond when such commentary devolves into “unwarranted invective and misleading assertions” that could erode public trust in democratic institutions.
“Pastor Bakare, a cleric and political voice in his own right, has previously contributed to national discourse in ways that have spurred reflection and debate,” Senator Adaramodu noted. “However, his most recent statements veer away from constructive criticism into rhetoric, unfortunately laced with contempt and unsubstantiated claims.”
The Senate spokesperson further highlighted Bakare’s past political aspirations, noting his candidacy in previous elections. “We view his corrosive criticisms of the National Assembly as a biased and political ecumenical homily,” Senator Adaramodu asserted, suggesting a political motivation behind the cleric’s remarks. “His position as a political leader influences the context of his statements, which are not only reflections of personal views but also carry significant political implications.”
The Senate also pointed out Bakare’s legal background, emphasizing his awareness of constitutional boundaries regarding public commentary, particularly on matters currently before a court. “The National Assembly cannot and will not be drawn into responding to issues that are already before a court of competent jurisdiction out of respect for the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary,” the statement clarified.
Addressing the issue of checks and balances, Senator Adaramodu cautioned against equating “performative hostility” with effective legislative oversight. He cited instances where the National Assembly has constructively disagreed with the Executive, including specific aspects of the presidential declaration on the Rivers State state of emergency, which Bakare had referenced. “These examples reflect our commitment to constitutionalism and fidelity to the Nigerian people — not posturing for effect,” he stated.
The Senate also drew a contrast with past administrations, noting that the current executive has not presented any “unconstitutional agenda” to the 10th Assembly, unlike the “unspeakable but infamous Third Term agenda” of a previous era, which Bakare had used as a performance benchmark.
“To cast aspersions on the entire institution based on personal frustrations, ideological differences, or as positioning ahead of possible future political alignments is not only unfair but also counterproductive to our collective democratic journey,” Senator Adaramodu emphasized. He called for dialogue grounded in “truth, mutual respect, and a commitment to nation-building,” rather than “polarizing rhetoric.”
The Senate concluded by expressing its openness to engaging with all Nigerians, including Pastor Bakare, in a spirit of constructive dialogue, urging public figures to temper their criticisms with facts and national responsibility. “Our democracy, though imperfect, is best nurtured through thoughtful contributions that inspire reform, not resentment,” the statement affirmed.
