The Senate on Thursday resolved that the seat of its President, Godswill Akpabio, was not vacant following a mild drama during plenary over his remarks on a bill seeking to decriminalise attempted suicide.
The resolution followed Akpabio’s assertion that some politicians were targeting him because of the position he occupies as President of the 11th Senate.
Akpabio said his comments during deliberations on the suicide prevention bill had been taken out of context by individuals he alleged were interested in his position.
Clarifying his remarks, the Senate President insisted that he did not malign the Islamic religion while contributing to the debate on the proposed legislation.
The bill, sponsored by Akpabio, seeks to establish a framework for suicide prevention, decriminalise attempted suicide and provide rehabilitation for people who attempt to take their own lives.
The resolution reaffirming that the Senate President’s seat was not vacant followed the exchange during Thursday’s plenary.
