By Baron Ike
“To err is human, to forgive is divine,” was one of the lines embattled Senator Ishaku Elisha Abbo who was caught on close circuit television camera assaulting a lady used to prick the conscience of Nigerians as he apologized to the victim of his aggression and asked Nigerians to forgive him.
Abbo who represents Adamawa North, and believed to be the youngest in the history of the senate at age 41 drew the ire of Nigerians on Tuesday when the video of the despicable behaviour went viral leading to barrage of calls for his arrest, prosecution and recall from the senate.
The police authorities directed for full inquest into his action just as the senate leadership constituted a committee of six headed by Sam Egwu (Ebonyi state) to look into the matter.
While the social media was awash with Abbo’s attitude, Amnesty International, through some members solicited prosecution from the appropriate quarters since the senator belongs to the #NotTooYoungToRun# category of leaders who are being looked up to transform Nigeria.
By evening of Wednesday, as much as almost 50,000 persons had signed the petition online requesting for Abbo’s prosecution and recall.
But he seems to have been sobered by his own foolishness going by the statement he signed on Wednesday.
He said: “It is with a deep sense of remorse and responsibility that I, Senator Ishaku Abbo (SIA) profoundly apologize to all Nigerians, the Senate, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), my family, friends as well as our mothers – the Nigerian women.
“I personally apologize to Bibra and her family for my action towards her, which has brought immense discomfort in our body polity.
“I have never been known or associated with such actions in the past. Regardless of what transpired prior to my expression of anger, I am sincerely sorry and plead that all men and women of good conscience should have the heart to forgive me. To err is human, to forgive is divine.
“To the Church of God everywhere in the world, I am sorry. As an Ambassador of Christ, much is expected of me.
“My family and religious upbringing do not give approval to such conduct and for this, as a leader, I seek forgiveness before God and all those who feel offended by my action.
“Indeed, this episode has taught me a very great lesson both as a private citizen and a public officer, particularly as a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria upon whom public confidence is bestowed.
“Finally, I assure Nigerians, especially the people of Adamawa North of my good conduct at all times. Thank you and God bless.”