‘I’m Only Performing My Duties’ — Senator Goje Denies Clash With Akpabio

Senator Danjuma Goje, representing Gombe Central, has emphasized that there was no gap between him and Senate President Godswill Akpabio during Tuesday’s boisterous session, describing the episode as a standard parliamentary practice.

Goje made the clarification during Wednesday’s plenary, a day after he challenged Akpabio over what he called a “unparliamentary act” during proceedings.

Citing procedural rules, the senator raised a point of order, claiming that several media outlets misrepresented his conduct.

Goje stated, “My intention in calling that order was not to fight the Senate President or to go against him personally.” “The idea is to contribute my quota as an experienced parliamentarian to ensure that the Senate follows the rules. There is nothing personal toward the Senate President or any senator.”

He emphasized that the exchange had been overblown and called on reporters and social media users to rectify the story.
“There was no drama. There was neither a dispute nor a brawl. I merely raised a routine point of order… all was sorted out. Please report what really occured, not somebody’s views,” he added.

Goje maintained his position firmly, stressing once more, “We didn’t fight yesterday. It was not a fight.”

Senate President Akpabio responded by praising the clarification and reiterating the demand for truthful reporting.

“I hope they will hear that there is no fight in the Senate and that we are all one,” he said, underlining that the chamber is unified.

Barely a day had passed since the chamber momentarily descended into chaos due to the procedural dispute before the clarification. Both politicians have now declared publicly that there was no fight and that the situation was simply procedural.