Constituents of Yagba Federal Constituency in Kogi State have initiated legal action against the Federal Lawmaker, Hon. Leke Abejide, over alleged refusal to render an account of stewardship, as well as claims bordering on infringement of the right to information, issuance of defamatory remarks against constituents demanding for account of stewardship and alleged violations of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA), 2023, among other concerns.
This development follows a public statement made weeks ago by the lawmaker, in which he allegedly threatened constituents who demanded accountability with legal action, while also making remarks widely considered derogatory. In part, he questioned the competence of critics and dismissed certain legislative efforts as frivolous, further asserting that his personal interventions should not be mistaken for statutory responsibilities.
Additionally, the statement allegedly described concerned constituents using terms such as “vagabonds, not useful, charlatans, uncultured, unserious, and ungrateful elements and individuals”, a remarks that have since drawn backlash from the public.
Part of statement reads, How can someone be deficient in knowledge knows the difference between sponsorship of Bills that will never get Presidential assent but only for Media show, a Bill for good intentions that will produce tangible results and will get Presidential assent; such bills are extremely few and for a serious Legislator like me, I do not have time for frivolous Bills that have no relevance and never going to see the light of the day. In the same vein in his statement, he said if he is doing things out of his benevolence with his God given resources, it should not be miscontrued as if it is his responsibility to do that.
Member Representing Yagba Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, Abuja
In response, constituents formally demanded a retraction, a public apology, and a cessation of what they described as defamatory and derogatory expressions. However, following an alleged failure to comply within the stipulated 48-hour window, they proceeded to file a lawsuit at the High Court of Kogi State of Nigeria in the Kogi Judicial Division Holden at Mopa.
At the heart of the matter, the constituents contend that the refusal to provide a clear account of stewardship undermines the very essence of democratic representation, which is anchored on transparency, accountability and continuous engagement with the electorate.
The lawmaker is expected to be duly served with the lawsuit, as the case sets the stage for a legal examination of the obligations of elected officials to those they represent.
Attached is the lawsuit
Omolade & 1or. v. Leke Abejide
