Engr. Obi Njoku Condemns Senate’s Threat to Declare Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe’s Seat Vacant

I, Engr. Obi Njoku, an engineer, concerned citizen, and advocate for justice, equity, and the rule of law in our dear nation, write to express my profound dismay and strong condemnation of the ongoing move by certain elements within the Nigerian Senate to declare the seat of the Distinguished Senator representing Abia South Senatorial District, Senator Enyinnaya Harcourt Abaribe, vacant.

This threat, which emerged during plenary proceedings following Senator Abaribe’s defection from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), represents a troubling overreach and a potential violation of constitutional due process, fair hearing, and the spirit of democratic representation.

Senator Abaribe has publicly cited irreconcilable leadership crises within his former party as the basis for his decision, a claim that aligns with recognized exceptions under Section 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which permits defection without loss of seat where the original party is divided or in crisis. The Senate’s rush to discount these assertions—demanding immediate proof of expulsion while ignoring the broader context of internal party turmoil—smacks of selective application of the law and political vendetta rather than impartial constitutional interpretation.

It is disheartening to witness the hallowed chamber of the Senate, which ought to be the guardian of democracy, being weaponized against one of its own distinguished members known for his outspokenness, integrity, and consistent advocacy for the rights of the Nigerian people—particularly the good people of Abia South and the Southeast in general.

Declaring a senator’s seat vacant without exhaustive verification, fair hearing, and judicial recourse sets a dangerous precedent that could intimidate legislators, stifle political realignment, and undermine the electorate’s mandate. Senator Abaribe was elected by the people of Abia South, not by any political party apparatus alone. Any attempt to disenfranchise his constituents through procedural maneuvers must be resisted by all lovers of democracy.

I call on:

The President of the Senate, His Excellency Senator Godswill Akpabio, to uphold the principles of fairness and allow due process to prevail.

All senators of conscience to reject this motion and defend the independence of the legislature.

The good people of Abia South, the Southeast, and indeed all Nigerians to remain vigilant against any erosion of democratic norms.

Relevant authorities and civil society to closely monitor this development to ensure justice is served.

Democracy thrives on robust debate, party evolution, and protection of elected representatives from undue harassment. I stand in solidarity with Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe and urge that this matter be resolved constitutionally, transparently, and without prejudice.

Nigeria deserves better.

Signed:

Engr. Obi Njoku

Abuja, Nigeria

March 14, 2026