The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has raised serious concerns over the ongoing controversy in the 10th Senate involving Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tukur A. Muhammad-Baba, the ACF acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation made by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, which have sparked widespread debate and media attention.
“Many individuals and organizations have weighed in on the issue, and even Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s husband has been compelled to speak publicly. These developments risk undermining the integrity of the National Assembly, an institution responsible for enacting laws for the country,” the statement read..
The ACF pointed out that the Senate is not sufficiently representing the interests of Kogi Central constituents, even though the dispute continues.
Since only Northern senators have been subject to severe sanctions, such as suspensions, in the current Senate, the group also expressed concerns about potential bias against Northern senators.
Even though this may seem unrealistic, ACF hopes that it is not a part of the thinly veiled anti-Arewa agenda that is influencing Nigerian politics. The events that are taking place make one wonder if this is a pattern or just a string of coincidences.
ACF demands an impartial, transparent, and open investigation into the claims in order to guarantee justice and avoid excessive meddling.
At a time when Nigerians are experiencing economic hardship, the Senate needs to get back to its primary responsibility of enacting laws.
In order to guarantee Akpoti-Uduaghan a fair trial and dignified treatment, the Northern Caucus in the 10th Senate should unite behind her.
Moral rectitude, discipline, decorum, and integrity must be upheld in the conduct of the National Assembly’s leadership and members.
Because the 10th Senate’s reputation is on the line, its members need to behave appropriately.
The ACF urged all parties to put the national interest first and make sure the Senate keeps its reputation both domestically and abroad in its closing remarks.
