The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has condemned the Senate’s decision to summon Ahmad Isah, CEO of Brekete Family Radio, over a broadcast involving Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing the move as deeply concerning.
In a statement released Monday, HURIWA’s national coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, argued that the Senate’s action undermines the institution’s legislative responsibilities.
“The National Assembly should be the incubator of good and quality laws to enhance good governance. Those who are made legislators by the votes of Nigerians should therefore not turn themselves or their leaders into demi-gods. Sovereignty belongs to the people of Nigeria as clearly stated by the Nigerian constitution. Any manifestation of intolerance to divergent opinions by legislators, is antithetical to constitutional democracy and must be discouraged by all lovers of democracy,” Onwubiko stated.
The rights group likened the Senate’s focus on Brekete Family Radio to “a man whose house is on fire but goes about chasing rats,” highlighting the country’s pressing issues such as inflation, rising living costs, insecurity, and youth unemployment.
Reports indicated that the Senate had summoned Ahmad Isah, popularly known as the Ordinary President, to appear before lawmakers on or before February 27, 2025. Isah disclosed this development via his official X handle on Monday.
HURIWA linked the Senate’s invitation to the controversy surrounding Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s clash with Senate President Godswill Akpabio over her seating arrangement in the chamber. After protesting her relocation without prior notice, Akpoti-Uduaghan alleged that Senate leaders were plotting to suspend her.
The conflict escalated when Akpabio muted her microphone and directed the Sergeant-at-Arms to remove her from the chamber, prompting the senator to share her experience during an interview on Brekete Family Radio. Attempts by the radio station to contact Akpabio for a response reportedly went unanswered after an initial interaction.
HURIWA emphasized that the Senate’s action against the broadcaster threatens press freedom and constitutional rights.
“Specifically, Section 22 provides that: ‘The press, radio, television and other agencies of the mass media shall at all times be free to uphold the fundamental objectives contained in this chapter and uphold the responsibility and accountability of the Government to the people.’ Just as section 39 states: ‘Every person shall be entitled to freedom of expression including freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and Info without interference.’”
The organization urged lawmakers to remember their mandate comes from the electorate, cautioning against behavior that suggests they are above the law.
