The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has sharply criticized the Nigerian Senate for summoning Ahmed Isah, the popular host of the “Brekete Family” radio program, following his recent interview with Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The group labeled the Senate’s action as an assault on free speech and an attempt to intimidate media practitioners and citizens exercising their democratic rights.
The controversy stems from a broadcast in which Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan aired grievances regarding her interactions with Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The interview, aired on the widely listened-to Brekete Family Show, reportedly touched on internal Senate tensions, prompting swift backlash from the legislative body. On February 24, 2025, the Senate issued a summons for Isah to appear before it, a move that has ignited widespread debate across Nigeria.
HURIWA, in a statement released on Tuesday, condemned the Senate’s decision, accusing it of overreach and vindictiveness. “This is a blatant attempt to silence dissenting voices and punish those who provide a platform for truth,” the statement read. “Ahmed Isah has been a champion of the common man, giving a voice to the voiceless through his program. Summoning him for hosting a senator who spoke her mind is an affront to free expression and the principles of democracy.”
The group further questioned the motives behind the summons, suggesting that Senate President Akpabio was using his position to settle personal scores. “The leadership of the National Assembly should focus on addressing the pressing issues facing Nigerians—poverty, insecurity, and economic collapse—rather than engaging in petty vendettas,” HURIWA asserted.
Public reaction has been polarized. Supporters of Isah, widely known as “Ordinary President” for his advocacy on behalf of ordinary Nigerians, have taken to social media to express outrage, with many calling the Senate’s move a misuse of power. Critics of the radio host, however, argue that his platform has occasionally crossed ethical lines, though no specific allegations have been formally tied to this incident.
The summons has also drawn condemnation from prominent figures. Former Senator Shehu Sani described the Senate’s action as “unfortunate and unnecessary,” arguing that it undermines the institution’s credibility. “The Senate should not be in the business of intimidating citizens for doing their jobs,” Sani stated.
Meanwhile, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has not publicly commented on the summons, leaving observers to speculate about the full scope of the dispute between her and the Senate leadership. The Brekete Family Show, known for tackling issues of injustice and corruption, has long been a thorn in the side of some Nigerian elites, amplifying the voices of citizens who feel ignored by the government.
HURIWA has called for the Senate to retract the summons and issue an apology to Isah, warning that such actions could further erode public trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions. “The Senate must realize that its role is to serve the people, not to suppress them,” the group concluded.
Ahmed Isah has not confirmed whether he will comply with the Senate’s invitation. The unfolding situation continues to spark discussions about the boundaries of free speech, the power of the media, and the accountability of Nigeria’s elected officials.
This development comes at a time when Nigeria grapples with growing concerns over governance and human rights, placing additional scrutiny on the actions of its lawmakers. Whether the Senate will back down or double down remains to be seen, but for now, “Natasha’s Ordeal”—as some have dubbed it—has thrust Ahmed Isah and the Brekete Family Show into the national spotlight once again.
