By Olusegun Olanrewaju

 Mixed reactions have continued to trail the Senate President’s disclosure of recess allowance for senators.

While the Foundation for True Freedom and Public Accountability is commending the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, Akpabio for his recent announcement on live Television, the recess allowance provided to Senators for their annual vacation, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) says it will file a lawsuit against Akpabio.

True Freedom and Public Accountability said it was commending Akpabio for his commitment to transparency and accountability and encourages him to continue prioritising these principles throughout his tenure.

In a statement issued by its spokesman, Bamidele Ebun, the group said, “In a time when the public demands greater openness and accountability from their representatives, Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s decision to publicly disclose the recess allowance demonstrates a commitment to the principles of good governance.

“By ensuring that the information is available to the public, he has taken a significant step towards enhancing transparency in the legislative process.

“The decision to make the recess allowance information public is particularly noteworthy given the prevailing challenges of misinformation and distrust facing our society today. By proactively addressing the issue and providing clarity on the allowance, Senate President Godswill Akpabio is reinforcing the importance of transparency and accountability in public service.

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“Transparency is a cornerstone of good governance, and it is essential in fostering public trust and confidence in our democratic institutions. When public officials are forthcoming about their financial arrangements, it instils a sense of responsibility and credibility in the minds of the citizens they represent. By choosing to disclose the recess allowance, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has shown leadership and integrity in his commitment to serving the Nigerian people.

“We call on other public officials to follow the example set by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Transparency should be a guiding principle for all elected representatives, as it strengthens democracy and enables citizens to make informed judgments about the governance of their country.

“We also encourage the Nigerian public to remain engaged and hold their elected representatives accountable for their actions. Through active participation and continued demands for transparency, we can collectively build a more accountable and responsive government.

Meanwhile, SERAP said it will file a lawsuit against the Senate concerning the disbursement of “holiday allowances” to senators by the Clerk of the National Assembly.

It said the contentious move was coming at a time when almost 70 per cent of Nigerians are grappling with severe economic challenges.

In a brief statement via its official X handle, SERAP announced that it was suing the Senate President who had made the gaffe announcement on Monday during plenary.

“We’re suing the Senate President Godswill Akpabio over the alleged payments of “holiday allowances” by the Clerk of the National Assembly into the “various accounts” of senators while some 137 million poor Nigerians face severe economic hardship,” SERAP stated.

Details of the lawsuit, including the petitioners and the specific charges, are yet to be disclosed. However, the move signifies rising tension and scrutiny over the management of public funds, especially in light of the present economic climate.