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The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria has petitioned the United Nations, through the Office of the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, regarding the ongoing controversy in the Nigerian Senate following sexual assault allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
In a letter dated March 18, 2025, and signed by its Executive Director, Ambassador Blessing Akinlosotu, the Council emphasized the need to uphold the integrity of the Senate as a symbol of democracy and national sovereignty.
The Council asserted that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recent suspension was based on violations of Senate rules rather than her allegations against Akpabio. It cited reasons for her suspension, including refusing to sit in her assigned seat, addressing the Senate without prior recognition, and making derogatory remarks about Senate leadership.
Referencing Sections 6.1 and 6.2 of the 2023 Standing Orders of the Nigerian Senate, the group maintained that the disciplinary action was procedural and not linked to her claims against the Senate President.
“The Senate Chamber is a sacred and revered space where national laws and policies that shape a country’s destiny are deliberated and enacted. It must remain free from unnecessary disruptions,” the letter stated.
While acknowledging the seriousness of sexual harassment accusations, the group expressed concerns that politicizing such allegations could undermine governance. It called for a fair and evidence-based approach, urging that claims against high-ranking officials be substantiated before being made public.
The Council condemned any attempt to spread misinformation and insisted that justice must be served without compromising the credibility of public institutions.
