Akpabio emphasises Senate decorum, denounces misleading reports on Musa incident

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has reaffirmed the Nigerian Senate’s commitment to procedural order and mutual respect, responding to viral speculation stemming from a recent plenary session. Contrary to circulating claims, Akpabio clarified that no mockery or embarrassment was directed at Senator Sani Musa during the presentation of a harmonised report on the Tax Reform Bills.

The clarification followed the spread of a video online showing Senator Musa—Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance—momentarily pausing during his presentation, prompting unfounded suggestions that he had struggled with a definition and was subsequently mocked.

Addressing the matter in a personally signed statement released in Abuja on Friday, Akpabio explained that the brief pause occurred after Senator Abdul Ningi raised a Point of Order, a standard procedural motion in legislative sessions.

“The moment was procedural, not personal,” Akpabio stated. “There was no ridicule, and Senator Musa handled his duties with composure and clarity.”

The Senate President praised Musa’s leadership in the harmonisation of the Tax Reform Bills, highlighting the importance of his role in advancing fiscal legislation. He noted that the process had earned recognition from both legislative chambers and critical stakeholders.

“Senator Sani Musa remains an indispensable voice in our legislative efforts toward meaningful fiscal reform,” Akpabio said.

He also issued a caution to digital platforms and media houses, urging a shift away from sensational reporting and toward responsible journalism when covering parliamentary proceedings.

“Our institution thrives on order, dignity, and factual integrity,” Akpabio concluded. “Let’s not allow misinformation to undermine public trust in the legislative process