Senate Confirms Minister Who Called Lawmakers ‘Morons’ – Akpabio Explains U-Turn

In a shocking revelation, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has admitted that the Senate confirmed Dr. Bosun Tijani as Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, despite his past criticism of lawmakers, including calling them “morons.”

Speaking at a special Iftar in honor of President Bola Tinubu’s 73rd birthday, Akpabio disclosed that senators were initially outraged when Tijani appeared for screening, with one senator quoting his past remarks from the internet.

“When he came to the Senate, senators said, ‘No, no, we can’t have him.’ One senator even quoted from the internet where he described all Nigerian senators as ‘morons,’” Akpabio recounted.

Despite the controversy, Akpabio said lawmakers eventually confirmed Tijani because they trusted President Tinubu’s judgment. “Mr. President, we confirmed him because we knew you must have seen something special in him. You are never wrong in your judgment of people,” he added.

President Tinubu, on his part, defended his decision, arguing that Tijani’s talent outweighed his past criticisms. “Because he criticizes me does not mean he has nothing to offer,” Tinubu stated, adding that past frustrations might even make the minister more committed to governance.

Tijani himself admitted that he expected backlash during his nomination but was surprised by Tinubu’s support. “I was expecting a proper scolding, but the magnanimity of the President is one I experienced for the first time,” he said.

The appointment has sparked debates over whether past criticisms should disqualify individuals from public office or if competence should take precedence over past remarks.