Abuja, Nigeria — The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has formally addressed recent comments made by Pastor Tunde Bakare, describing his assertions as “unwarranted invective” capable of eroding public confidence in the nation’s democratic institutions.
The response was contained in an official statement released by Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, who expressed concern over what he termed a transition from constructive engagement to politically coloured rhetoric lacking factual basis.
“While every Nigerian holds the right to express views on national governance,” the statement read, “such expressions must not distort realities or incite public mistrust under the guise of patriotism.”
Pastor Bakare, a respected cleric and former presidential aspirant, had recently issued remarks that questioned the credibility and efficacy of the National Assembly. In addressing the matter, the Senate acknowledged his contributions to national dialogue but cautioned that his latest comments reflected political undertones and personal grievances rather than objective analysis.
Describing his criticisms as a “partisan homily masquerading as civic concern,” the Senate further emphasized that as a trained lawyer and political actor, Pastor Bakare bears a greater responsibility to uphold the ethics of informed public commentary, particularly on matters under legal consideration.
In clarifying its stance on the legislative-executive dynamic, the Senate refuted the notion that institutional disagreement must manifest as overt confrontation. “Maturity in governance,” the statement noted, “is demonstrated through productive collaboration, not performative discord.”
The Assembly also responded to references made by Bakare regarding the historical “Third Term” debate, stressing that the present legislature has never entertained such unconstitutional proposals. It warned against manipulating past narratives for political mileage, noting that Bakare’s shifting assessments of previous assemblies underscore the subjectivity of such views.
“It is both inaccurate and injurious to Nigeria’s democratic process to cast aspersions on the Senate due to personal ambitions or perceived political misalignment,” the statement continued. It added that constructive feedback remains welcome, but must be rooted in facts and a shared vision for national progress.
In its conclusion, the Senate called for greater responsibility among public figures, particularly those with influence in religious and civic spheres, urging them to frame their engagements with a commitment to truth and unity.
“Democracy thrives not on antagonism but on informed discourse and collaborative nation-building,” the Senate declared, reaffirming its openness to dialogue and its dedication to legislative transparency and accountability.
By Enoch Odesola| April 25, 2025
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