We’ll be eating while you are out there, Akpabio teases protesters

Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President has teased those calling for demonstration over the economic hardship in the country.

According to him, those interested in the protest can go ahead “but let us be there eating”.

Senator Akpabio addressed an event organized by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in Rivers State on Tuesday.

His remark comes as the planned event is set to kick off on August 1 and wrap up on August 10, as stated by the organizers.

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, met with some of the organisers on Tuesday in Abuja, appealing to them for virtual protest but they insisted on going to the streets.

However, during the NDDC event, Akpabio said he was not interested in any “regime change”.

“All of us feel the impact of what is happening now. But we are aware it will be for a short while. MD, I want to thank you for what you said. You said we are not interested in regime change, let us own this government.

“Those who want to protest can protest, but let us be there eating — I must thank the Niger Delta”, he added.

He added, “We acknowledge the fact that the impact of oil and gas activities in our region has done immeasurable damage to our people.”

The National Assembly, he assured, is ready to help with legislation to curb oil spillage and environmental pollution in the region.

“The specific issues faced by the Niger Delta must be contained in that communique because we are going to make it available to Mr President,” he said.

“The ones that need legislation will come to us, the ones that need intervention will go to NDDC, the ones that need more money will go to the president and commander-in-chief and I assure that those issues will be addressed”, he submitted.

The National Assembly, led by Senator Akpabio, has convened an emergency session on the eve of the scheduled protest.