Fact-Check: Did Akpabio really mock Intending Nigerian Protesters with “We”ll be eating while you are protesting” comment?

There has been an uproar on social media over the alleged comments of Senate President Godswill Akpabio mocking intending protesters and those calling for demonstration over the economic hardship in the country to go ahead and protest, “but let us be there eating”.

Akpabio was reported to have spoken at an event organised by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) on Tuesday in Rivers state.

His comment comes on the heels of the planned which organisers said would take off on August 1 and end August 10.

Protest: Lagos residents lament “No money to buy food to stock up” 

The recent call for the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeriaProtest has emerged against a backdrop of severe economic hardship, rising inflation, hunger and widespread discontent among Nigerians. The protest, scheduled from August 1 to 10, 2024, aims to address these pressing issues, highlighting the government’s failure to provide basic necessities and improve living conditions.

 

Genesis of the Protest

The protest was initiated in response to the deteriorating economic situation in Nigeria, characterized by high unemployment rates, increased food prices, and inadequate public services. Citizens have expressed their frustrations over the government’s inability to tackle these problems effectively. Activists and civil society organizations have rallied support for the protest, emphasizing the need for accountability and better governance.

 

Government’s Response to the Protest

In anticipation of the nationwide protest, the federal government has employed various strategies to dissuade participation, including:

Appeals and Persuasion: Government officials have urged citizens to exercise patience, suggesting that the current hardships are temporary and will soon improve. This rhetoric aims to downplay the urgency of the protest and encourage a sense of complacency among the populace.

Propaganda: There have been attempts to portray the protest as politically motivated or as an effort to destabilize the government. This narrative seeks to delegitimize the grievances of the protesters and frame them as unpatriotic.

Insensitivity to Public Concerns

The government’s response has been criticized for its insensitivity to the real issues faced by Nigerians. Key concerns raised by citizens include:

Economic Hardship: Rising costs of living and inflation affecting daily survival.

Unemployment: A lack of job opportunities for the youth and working-age population.

Corruption: Ongoing issues of corruption within government institutions, leading to mismanagement of resources.

Inadequate Public Services: Failures in healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.

Godswill Akpabio’s Remarks

In a recent address, Senate President Godswill Akpabio reportedly stated, “Those who want to protest can protest, but let us be there eating,” which has drawn significant backlash. While some reports confirm this statement, others, including Akpabio’s aides, have denied that he made such comments, suggesting that the media may have misrepresented his words. This controversy highlights the disconnect between government officials and the citizens they serve, further fueling public outrage.

 

Public Reaction

Nigerians have reacted strongly to Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s recent comments regarding the nationwide protest against economic hardship. His statement, “Those who want to protest can protest, but let us be here eating,” has been widely interpreted as dismissive and insensitive to the struggles faced by the populace amid rising inflation and economic difficulties.

Shock and Outrage: Many citizens expressed shock at Akpabio’s remarks, viewing them as a mockery of the serious issues that prompted the protest. Critics argue that such comments reflect a disconnect between government officials and the realities faced by ordinary Nigerians. The sentiment is that leaders should be more empathetic and responsive to the citizens’ plight rather than trivializing their grievances.

Social Media Backlash: The comments quickly went viral on social media, with users condemning Akpabio for his lack of sensitivity. Many have called for accountability from leaders, emphasizing that the economic hardships are not a laughing matter. The hashtag #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria has gained traction as protesters rally around the issues raised by Akpabio’s comments.

Support for the Protest: Akpabio’s remarks have galvanized support for the protest, with many citizens affirming their commitment to participating. The protest is seen as a necessary response to the government’s failure to address critical issues such as unemployment, corruption, and inadequate public services.

Political Implications: Some political analysts suggest that Akpabio’s comments could have negative repercussions for the government, as they may further alienate citizens who feel ignored and marginalized. The remarks have sparked discussions about the need for genuine dialogue between the government and the people to address their concerns effectively.

 

The backlash against Akpabio’s comments highlights the growing frustration among Nigerians regarding their government’s handling of economic issues. As the nationwide protest unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the demands of its citizens and whether it will take meaningful steps to address the underlying problems that have led to widespread discontent.

 

Result of the Fact-Check: It is difficult to doubt that Senator Godswill Akpabio made this statement because of a history of recent verbal gaffes. Below a two examples:

Comments at Herbert Wigwe’s Funeral

During the funeral of Herbert Wigwe, a prominent Nigerian businessman who died in a helicopter crash, Akpabio made comments that were widely criticized as inappropriate. He lamented that former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi received a better reception than he did, which many viewed as self-centered and disrespectful during a solemn occasion. Atedo Peterside, a notable figure, called Akpabio’s remarks “totally insensitive,” emphasizing that such comments were out of place at a funeral

“Nightclub” Comment to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan

In July 2024, Akpabio sparked outrage when he told Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, “the Senate is not a nightclub,” during a heated Senate session. This remark was perceived as dismissive and derogatory, leading to significant backlash on social media. Akpabio later apologized, stating that his comments were misinterpreted and that he respects women. He acknowledged the public’s reaction and expressed regret if his words offended anyone, particularly Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.

These incidents illustrate a pattern of Akpabio making controversial remarks that have drawn criticism and necessitated public apologies.

 

Last word: It is necessary for the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio to consider the high office he is occupying before making comments that puts him, the Senate, National Assembly and the nation in bad light.

Citizens of Nigeria are going through unprecedented hardship. He should show empathy, compassion, wisdom and love in the kind of comments he makes.