Akpabio-led NASS must be farming sugarcane in Ogbomosho – Adeyanju

Editor-in-chiefFebruary 21, 20262 Mins read9

Akpabio-Led NASS Must Be Farming Sugarcane in Ogbomosho – Adeyanju

Introduction

Prominent Nigerian activist and attorney Deji Adeyanju has launched a scathing critique of the National Assembly under Senate President Godswill Akpabio, suggesting that its members would be better suited to agricultural work than legislative duties. His controversial remarks came during an interview with AIT regarding the recently signed Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026.

Key Points

Adeyanju claims the Akpabio-led National Assembly is "an enemy of Nigerians"
He argues the new electoral law takes Nigeria backward to pre-2023 election practices
The activist suggests politicians should serve voluntarily rather than as paid careers
He proposes professionals like doctors and engineers should temporarily serve in the legislature
Adeyanju uses strong language, comparing lawmakers to "political armed robbers"

Background

The controversy stems from President Bola Tinubu’s signing of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026 into law on Wednesday. This legislation has sparked debate about its implications for Nigeria’s electoral process. Adeyanju’s criticism centers on provisions he believes could enable manipulation of election results, comparing the situation to practices from 2003 when election outcomes were reportedly predetermined.

Analysis

Adeyanju’s comments reflect growing frustration among civil society actors regarding legislative oversight and the quality of governance in Nigeria. His suggestion that lawmakers should be “farming sugarcane in Ogbomosho” is a metaphorical expression indicating that he believes they lack the competence for their current roles.

The activist’s proposal to make politics a voluntary service rather than a paid career represents a radical departure from current democratic practice. While such a system might reduce corruption and self-serving behavior, it could also limit political participation to those who can afford to serve without compensation.

His comparison of the National Assembly to “political armed robbers” and “bandits in the forest” demonstrates the intensity of public dissatisfaction with perceived legislative failures. The reference to Ogbomosho, a city in Oyo State known for agriculture, particularly sugarcane farming, adds cultural context to his criticism.

Practical Advice

For citizens concerned about legislative accountability, Adeyanju’s comments suggest several approaches:

1. **Increased civic engagement**: Citizens should actively participate in legislative oversight through petitions, peaceful protests, and engagement with elected representatives.

2. **Support for electoral reform**: Advocacy groups should continue pushing for transparent electoral processes that prevent manipulation.

3. **Professional participation**: Encouraging qualified professionals to consider public service, even if temporarily, could improve legislative quality.

4. **Financial transparency**: Demanding greater accountability for legislative spending, particularly regarding the purchase of official vehicles and other perks.

FAQ

**Q: What specifically did Adeyanju criticize about the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026?**

A: He argued that the bill takes Nigeria back to practices from 2003, where election results could be easily manipulated or predetermined by those in power.

**Q: Why did Adeyanju suggest lawmakers should farm sugarcane in Ogbomosho?**

A: This was a metaphorical statement suggesting that he believes lawmakers are incompetent and would be better suited to agricultural work than legislative duties.

**Q: What alternative system did Adeyanju propose for the National Assembly?**

A: He suggested making politics a voluntary service rather than a paid career, with professionals like doctors, lawyers, and engineers serving temporarily.

**Q: How has the National Assembly responded to these criticisms?**

A: The article does not mention any official response from the National Assembly or its leadership.

Conclusion

Deji Adeyanju’s provocative criticism of the Akpabio-led National Assembly highlights significant tensions between civil society and Nigeria’s legislative branch. His comments reflect broader concerns about legislative competence, electoral integrity, and the commercialization of politics. While his proposed solutions may seem extreme, they underscore the urgent need for reforms that enhance legislative accountability and effectiveness. As Nigeria continues to develop its democratic institutions, finding constructive ways to address these concerns will be crucial for strengthening governance and public trust.