APolitical Tension Soars As Ologbondiyan Orders Senators To Oust Akpabio

Ologbondiyan argued that the allegations against Akpabio warrant a thorough investigation, which can only be conducted properly if he vacates his position. He insisted that if Akpabio refuses to step aside, senators should take action to remove him.

Drawing from history, Ologbondiyan recalled how former Senate President David Mark, upon assuming office in 2007, prioritized eliminating the “Banana Peels” of financial misconduct that had led to the downfall of previous Senate leaders. Mark’s strategic approach ensured his uninterrupted eight-year tenure, and subsequent Senate Presidents, Bukola Saraki and Ahmed Lawan, also completed their terms without controversy.

In contrast, Ologbondiyan accused Akpabio of engaging in reckless behavior, which has now escalated with allegations of sexual harassment, introducing what he termed “Banana Sleaze” into the Senate’s affairs. He described the unfolding scandals as disgraceful and called on principled senators to take action to preserve the institution’s integrity.

He asserted that in a truly democratic and accountable Senate, Akpabio would voluntarily step down at the next plenary—presumably on Tuesday—to clear his name and, by extension, safeguard the Senate’s reputation.