- The CNPP and civil society coalition emphasized the seriousness of the sexual harassment allegations that have surfaced due to the conflict between Senator Akpabio and Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.
- Notably, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has formally filed a petition detailing her experiences, which she previously shared during a television interview.
The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) and civil society organisations (CSOs) under the Coalition of National Civil Society Organisations (CNCSOs) have expressed their concerns regarding the ongoing feud between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the coalition urges Senator Akpabio to step aside to facilitate a fair investigation into the sexual harassment allegations levied against him.
EDITOR’S PICK
- Ogun Police Condemn Fatal Attack in Osuke Village
- Senate Panel Recommends Six-Month Suspension For Natasha Over Allegation
- Senator Natasha Resubmits Petition, Insists Senate President Akpabio Sexually Harassed Her
At a press briefing in Abuja, Hon. Nnaemeka Aleke, the Public Relations Officer of the CNCSOs, emphasized the pressing need to uphold the integrity of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Aleke cited growing concerns over the Senate’s independence, particularly in light of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s endorsement of Senator Akpabio for the position of Senate President.
According to the coalition, many Nigerians perceive this endorsement as promoting corruption and impunity.
Furthermore, the announcement of a recess package for Senators following the inauguration of the 10th National Assembly has seemingly quelled opposition voices within the Senate.
This development has raised concerns about the lawmakers’ independence and the overall integrity of the institution.
The bodies also shed light on several unresolved allegations of corruption surrounding Senator Akpabio. Hon. Aleke cited calls for an investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) into Akpabio’s alleged diversion of N700 billion during his tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom State.
“An audit report has indicated financial infractions exceeding N1 trillion during his governorship,” the groups said. Additionally, allegations of misappropriation of over N200 billion in Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) funds during Akpabio’s ministerial role were highlighted.
Addressing the gravity of the situation, the CNPP and civil society coalition emphasized the seriousness of the sexual harassment allegations that have surfaced due to the conflict between Senator Akpabio and Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Notably, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has formally filed a petition detailing her experiences, which she previously shared during a television interview.
Hon. Aleke pointed out that similar allegations were made by Joy Nunieh, the former Acting Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), back in 2020, yet no conclusive investigation was conducted.
Given these circumstances, the CNPP and CSOs are urging immediate action to address the allegations, underscoring the need for transparency and accountability in positions of power.
Their demands include the prompt recusal of Senator Godswill Akpabio from his position as President of the Senate while the investigation into the allegations is underway.
“Senator Akpabio cannot be the Judge in his own case if justice must be seen to have been done,” they asserted. They also demanded that the Senate Committee investigating the allegations must operate with transparency and impartiality, and that the proceedings be broadcast live to ensure accountability and public trust.
Furthermore, the CNPP and CNCSOs demanded that the Chairman of the committee, Senator Neda Imaseun, must also to recuse himself from the investigation due to his apparent bias against the petitioner as not to undermines the integrity of the investigative process.
Hon. Aleke concluded that the bodies were stressing the importance of upholding the principles of justice, accountability, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their status. “Nigeria’s reputation and the integrity of our Senate are at stake. We cannot afford to trivialize these serious allegations or allow them to go unaddressed,” he declared.
FURTHER READING
- Lagos State Assumes Full Control of Its Electricity Market in Landmark Regulatory Transfer
- FIFA Rankings: Super Falcons Maintain Global Position, Lead Africa
The political parties and the civil society coalition noted that their next line of action will be made known in the event that the outlined demands were not met.
Click here to watch video of the week
https://youtu.be/jCDCbiBlV50?si=D6Uwj3mBEaszQ4O_
