Pressure Mounts as Constituents Demand Accountability Amid Ethical Concerns
A major political storm is brewing in Edo State as constituents have formally submitted a petition to recall Senator Neda Imasuen, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions. The petition, lodged with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Nigerian Senate, and anti-corruption agencies, accuses Imasuen of corruption, abuse of office, and a breach of public trust.
The recall move follows growing discontent among constituents over the senator’s handling of key ethical issues in the Senate, particularly his role in the petition filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The petitioners argue that Imasuen’s actions have cast doubt on his commitment to ethical governance and transparency, which are fundamental to his position as head of the Senate Ethics Committee.
Allegations Against Senator Neda Imasuen
The petitioners allege that Imasuen has compromised the integrity of his office, citing multiple instances of misconduct. A key issue raised is his alleged mishandling of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition against Akpabio, which many believe was unfairly influenced. The constituents insist that his role in the matter demonstrated bias and a lack of commitment to ethical oversight.
Furthermore, the petitioners have highlighted Imasuen’s past legal troubles, particularly his disbarment by the New York State Supreme Court in 2010 for professional misconduct. They argue that this past indiscretion raises serious concerns about his fitness to serve as a senator and, more importantly, as the chairman of a committee responsible for ethical oversight.
Constituents Demand Accountability
The constituents behind the recall petition maintain that their demand is not politically motivated but rather a reflection of their desire for true representation. They believe that Imasuen’s leadership in the Senate Ethics Committee has been compromised by his past and present actions, making it difficult for him to uphold the moral and ethical standards required of his position.
“We elected Senator Imasuen to represent us with integrity and accountability,” a spokesperson for the petitioners stated. “However, his actions in the Senate suggest otherwise. How can someone with a history of professional misconduct oversee ethical matters in our legislative house?”
The petitioners are now calling on INEC to commence the recall process, emphasizing that they will not back down until justice is served.
Senator Imasuen’s Response
In response to the allegations, Senator Neda Imasuen has dismissed the recall petition as a politically motivated attack, orchestrated by individuals who, he claims, have been paid to tarnish his reputation.
“These are baseless accusations meant to distract me from my work in the Senate,” Imasuen said in a statement. “The people behind this petition are being used by my political opponents to discredit my efforts and score cheap political points.”
He further maintained that his past disbarment in New York does not reflect his present character, insisting that he has since rebuilt his career and is dedicated to serving the people of Edo State.
What Happens Next?
The recall process is a rigorous one, requiring INEC to verify the authenticity of the petition and ensure that it meets the constitutional requirements. If a significant percentage of Edo South constituents support the petition, INEC will be compelled to conduct a referendum to determine whether Imasuen should be removed from office.
As the political drama unfolds, stakeholders across Edo State and beyond are keenly watching the developments. The outcome of this petition could set a precedent for holding elected officials accountable, particularly those entrusted with upholding ethical standards in governance.
For now, the battle lines have been drawn between Senator Neda Imasuen and his constituents. Whether this petition leads to his removal or fizzles out as a political stunt remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—the demand for accountability in Nigerian politics is growing louder.
