Shehu Sani On The High Cost Of Recalling A Senator In Nigeria

Shehu Sani on the High Cost of Recalling a Senator in Nigeria

Former federal lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani, has emphasized the immense financial demands involved in recalling an incumbent senator. His statement comes amid growing discussions about an alleged attempt to unseat Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central in the Nigerian Senate.

The speculation follows her accusations of sexual harassment against Senate President Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeriasparking political tension. In a Facebook post on Saturday, Shehu Sani disclosed that recalling a senator is an extremely costly endeavor that can only be effectively executed with substantial state financial backing.

The Financial Burden of a Senatorial Recall

According to Shehu Sani, any senator facing a recall must be prepared to either spend a significant amount of money or rely on unwavering support from their constituents to withstand the challenge.

“A recall process is a financially draining venture that only the state can realistically support,” he noted. “The affected senator will either have to invest huge sums of money in countering the move or trust in the goodwill of their supporters.”

The Pressure of Political Office

Expanding on the struggles of public office holders, Sani described political positions as exhausting, consuming significant emotional, financial, and time resources.

“Every elected official will inevitably face challenges. Holding office is like sitting on a throne of thorns—there is no peace or rest for those in power,” he explained.

Reflecting on his own political experience, the former lawmaker pointed out how those in office often age quickly due to the constant pressures of governance.

“The day you assume office as a councillor, lawmaker, governor, or president, you bid farewell to mental peace until your tenure ends. Power is far from a bed of roses,” he added.

Senate Procedures and Recall Lawsa

The process of recalling a senator in Nigeria is constitutionally possible but remains highly challenging due to its financial and procedural complexities. Given these hurdles, successful recalls have been rare in the country’s political landscape.

For more information on legislative recall procedures, visit the Nigerian Senate website.