NGE flays invasion of Senate, seeks prosecution of culprits
The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has condemned the invasion of the Senate on Wednesday by suspected thugs, describing the act as an affront and assault on the nation’s fledgling democracy.
Recall that supporters of suspended Senator Ovie Omo- Agege (APC Delta Central) caused some moments of pandemonium at the Senate on Wednesday as they stormed the hallowed chamber in a commando manner, carting away the mace, the Senate’s symbol of authority.
In a statement on Thursday in Lagos signed by Mrs. Funke Egbemode and Victoria Ibanga, President and General Secretary respectively, the NGE said it is reprehensible to hear that the dastardly act was perpetrated on the instruction of an elected representative of the people.
The Guild therefore demanded that the perpetrators of the act be tracked, arrested and tried in accordance with the country’s constitutional provisions.
The NGE commended the Nigeria Police for swiftly responding to the emergent crisis but enjoined all security agencies to as a matter of urgency, renew their commitment and restrategise to forestall a recurrence, not only in the National Assembly but throughout the country.
The NGE also reminded all officials, elected or appointed and across all tiers of government, to remember their oath of office, as well as the confidence and trust reposed in them by the Nigerian people.
“At all times, their words and deeds must exemplify the highest level of decency, decorum, responsibility and stewardship, in order to remain worthy of the people’s faith and trust,” the Guild stated.
The NGE restated its commitment to promote issues that will deepen sustainable democracy in Nigeria. “In this regard, NGE calls on all other constitutional realms to diligently and selflessly play their parts to achieve this goal for our fatherland,” the statement concluded.
