Israel Umoh
In the long history of democratic politics, satire has occasionally found its way into the legislative arena. But even in its rarest forms, it has been wielded carefully, often by seasoned lawmakers with an understanding of the line between criticism and contempt.
The recently published satirical “apology” letter by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to Senate President Godswill Akpabio fails that test. It was not a critique grounded in principle—it was mockery posing as courage.
To be clear, this was not an attempt to reconcile or initiate reform. It was a calculated act of public derision—a performance crafted to ridicule a sitting Senate President and, by extension, reduce the credibility of the Senate itself. There was no policy argument, no constructive suggestion, just a carefully styled insult cloaked in theatrical regret.
Also read: Prof Mocks Natasha over satirical apology to Akpabio
In the past, some US Senators employed the art for reforms not for unserious issue like Natasha’s. For instance, Senator Roland Burris (United States) in 2009 recited a parody of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” on the Senate floor to critique delays in health care legislation. It was light-hearted, poetic, and policy-focused—not personal.
Senator Alan Simpson (United States) once engaged in satirical public commentary to encourage fiscal responsibility, even starring in a parody video to reach younger audiences. It targeted national debt, not individuals.
Senator David Turpie (United States, 19th century) was known for satirical quips in internal Senate affairs, but never directed sarcasm in writing toward the Senate President.
Each of these examples, though humorous, maintained institutional decorum and focused on issues—not individuals. They used satire to reflect policy challenges, not personal grudges. Senator Akpoti’s letter stands in stark contrast: it was not written to address governance—it was crafted to embarrass leadership.
Senator Godswill Akpabio, as the Senate President, represents more than a political party, or personal ideology. He embodies an institution meant to serve 200 million Nigerians. Regardless of personal or partisan differences, the office demands a level of respect—not as an endorsement of the individual, but as a recognition of the democratic structure we have chosen to govern ourselves.
When lawmakers resort to mockery instead of motion, when satire replaces substance, they abandon the very essence of legislative leadership. Our National Assembly is not a stage. Our constitution is not a script.
If Senator Akpoti has genuine grievances, the floor of the Senate and the rules of procedure exist for that purpose. But to dress sarcasm in official language is to make jest of the democratic institution that pays her mandate or she pretends to be a ‘honourable’ member.
Little wonder, US-based Lady Sandra Duru, also known as Prof. Mgbeke responded to her thus ‘‘SATIRICAL APOLOGY INDEED
Exactly what a drowning serial liar does when caught red-handed, and it’s exactly what I was patiently waiting for!
As a trained psychologist and media scientist, I anticipated this reaction, though even I didn’t expect her to expose herself in such a foolish and reckless manner. But here we are! Lol.
This is what happens when you have a brainless, uncultured individual with zero maturity, no discipline, no moral or ethical values, and absolutely no emotional intelligence pretending to represent the people of Kogi Central.
What an empty head!
Shameful and embarrassing, yet very telling.’’
Since these startling revelations by Prof Sandra, Natasha is unable to lift her head or hand to throw reasonable grenades on Prof Mgbe for digging into her hole of rumours and lies (?). She is incapacitated to the extent of dragging her to court to settle the (defamation?). She is unable to talk fearlessly and courageously on televisions or gallivanting literary performances crafted for social media applause and partisan cheerleading. Even the circle of phony admirers such as the likes of Ex-Minister of State (Education), Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, ARISE TV analysts, some biased Nigerian lawyers and compromised human rights activists could not raise their voices to defend their new-found role model. Perhaps, that is Natasha’s sedative used in wooing other Nigerians who think with their legs not with their heads. What a shame!
Of course, Natasha professes to be politically exposed person. Does the satire portray her as one? Or, is the satire an antenna to project her image the more into political hemisphere of winning more supporters and sympathisers? Or, does the satire project her as a friend of the poor when in actuality she belongs to the bourgeoises? Anyway, Natasha knows how to use the strategy to whip gullible Nigerians into satirical path: weaponising gender issues, whipping emotions like shedding tears and using hyperboles and unfounded accusations to prepare ala carte for poor but gullible Nigerians who stand at different viewing centres or houses or event centres hailing her for hitting Akpabio with verbal bullets. What a bewitched generation!
Candidly, Nigeria is tried of undue drama. The country cannot afford political theatre at a time of economic strain, insecurity, and institutional rebuilding. The citizens are not entertained—they are exhausted. They are not laughing—they are waiting for leadership.
This moment is bigger than a letter. It is about the integrity of our politics. It is about the message we send to a generation watching the Senate for direction and not distraction.
Let it be known: satire may stir applause, but it does not build nations. Leadership requires more—dignity, discipline, and above all, respect for the institutions that bind us.
In the end, mockery is not leadership. It never has been. And for Nigeria’s sake, it must not become one.
