Tension in Senate as Akpabio, Barau Clash Over Trump’s Comment on Alleged Christian Killings in Nigeria
A mild clash erupted in the Senate as Akpabio and Barau disagreed over Donald Trump’s comments on Nigeria.
The exchange highlighted divisions on how leaders should handle foreign criticism.
SEE ALSO: Deputy Senate President Declares “I’m Not Scared of Trump”
A heated moment played out in the Nigerian Senate on Monday as Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his deputy, Jibrin Barau, openly disagreed over how Nigeria should react to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent claim of a Christian g+nocide in the country.
The drama began when Akpabio addressed reports suggesting he had replied to Trump’s remarks. The Senate President dismissed the claim, saying he had already petitioned the police and the Department of State Services (DSS) to uncover those behind the false report.
“I never replied to President Trump over allegations of Christian g+nocide,” Akpabio said. “I’ve petitioned the police and the DSS to find the character behind that news. It’s the presidency that should respond to President Trump, not me. Who am I to answer President Trump?”
However, Deputy Senate President Barau countered, insisting that Nigerian leaders should not be intimidated by foreign figures. “Mr. President, Nigeria is a sovereign nation. Don’t be scared. I’m not scared of Trump. I can say my mind. I’m a parliamentarian and Deputy Senate President. I can speak. I’m not scared of Trump,” he said.
Akpabio responded, urging caution, “Get something, don’t allow people to ascribe what you didn’t say to you.” Barau, however, maintained that national leaders should be bold in defending the country’s image, replying, “Yes, you didn’t make that statement, that’s true, but you shouldn’t be afraid to speak up.”
At one point, Akpabio jokingly asked, “If you want me to say it now, should I say?” prompting Barau to restate his stance. “We’re not scared of Trump,” he insisted. “We’re a sovereign nation. He’s spreading lies about our country, and what he’s saying is not correct.”
The brief confrontation ended with Akpabio instructing the Senate Clerk to delete Barau’s last remarks, saying, “Clerk, please delete what the Deputy Senate President has said. He spoke out of tune.”
