Two Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), Civil Rights Africa and the League of Democracy Defenders, have raised concerns over what they describe as a coordinated plot by disgruntled opposition figures and some northern political leaders to destabilise the Senate and unseat its President, Senator Godswill Akpabio.
In a joint statement signed by Amb. Ikemefuna Richard and Alhaji Rabiu Mohammed, the groups accused suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of spearheading a campaign of misinformation and character assassination against Akpabio. They described allegations of sexual harassment and assassination attempts attributed to her as unsubstantiated and politically motivated.
The CSOs claimed the campaign is being funded by a former presidential candidate and bolstered by high-ranking opposition leaders allegedly dissatisfied with the current political power structure.
They maintained that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension was a necessary disciplinary measure carried out in accordance with the Senate’s rules due to her “disruptive tendencies” and “sustained misconduct.” They also faulted her decision to pursue a media campaign instead of seeking internal redress through legislative channels.
“The suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from Senate proceedings was a disciplinary action taken in line with the rules and ethics of the Nigerian Senate,” the statement said.
Addressing claims that an individual was jailed for election rigging in Akpabio’s favor, the CSOs dismissed the narrative as illogical and lacking factual basis. “How could the person who declared another winner be accused of rigging for the same man who supposedly lost the election?” they questioned.
The organisations reaffirmed their support for Akpabio, describing him as a stabilizing force in the Senate. They praised his leadership, which they say has fostered bipartisan cooperation and legislative progress since his emergence as Senate President.
They also urged the public and international stakeholders to rely on verified information and avoid being influenced by politically charged accusations.
“Senator Godswill Akpabio was elected by an overwhelming majority of Senators from across party lines, reflecting the will of the Senate and the Nigerian people,” the statement concluded.
The CSOs warned the alleged conspirators to abandon their plot, saying it had been exposed and would not succeed.
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