The Nigerian Senate has issued a cautionary statement to Pastor Tunde Bakare, founder of the Citadel Global Community Church, regarding his recent remarks directed at the 10th National Assembly. In the statement, the Senate expressed concern over what it termed “sweeping generalizations” and “disparaging commentary” that it believed undermined the institution.

Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, responded to Bakare’s comments in writing on Tuesday, emphasizing the Senate’s respect for the right of citizens to voice their opinions. However, he warned that when public statements veer into “unwarranted invectives” and “misleading assertions,” they risk eroding public trust in democratic institutions.

While acknowledging Pastor Bakare’s past contributions to national discourse, Adaramodu noted that his recent remarks had crossed the line from constructive criticism to rhetoric filled with contempt and unsubstantiated claims. He also reminded the public of Bakare’s political background, having run as a presidential aspirant and vice-presidential candidate in previous elections, suggesting that this context should influence the interpretation of his remarks.

Adaramodu further pointed out Bakare’s legal background, urging him to be mindful of constitutional boundaries when making public statements, especially on matters before the courts. He also emphasized that the Senate would refrain from commenting on issues currently before the courts out of respect for judicial independence.

The Senate clarified that attempts to portray tension between the National Assembly and the executive as a sign of strength were misplaced, asserting that “performative hostility” does not equate to effective legislative oversight. It highlighted instances where the Senate had constructively disagreed with the executive, including on matters such as the Rivers State state of emergency, which Bakare had referenced.

In defense of its performance, the Senate reiterated that it had not presented any unconstitutional agenda to the 10th National Assembly, in contrast to the rejected Third Term agenda of the past. Adaramodu urged Pastor Bakare and other public figures, especially those in civic and spiritual spheres, to temper their criticisms with facts and a sense of national responsibility, stressing that constructive dialogue was essential for advancing good governance and national development.

Concluding the statement, Adaramodu expressed confidence that Pastor Bakare would eventually commend the Assembly for acting in the best interest of Nigerians, aligning with its constitutional mandate. The Senate reiterated its openness to engaging in constructive dialogue with all Nigerians, including Bakare, to promote a healthy national discourse.