Akpabio vs. Natasha: ACF Warns Against Bias, Calls for Justice

Kaduna. The ongoing controversy in the 10th Senate between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio has cause the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) to express grave concern.

ACF’s National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tukur A. Muhammad-Baba, released a statement acknowledging the gravity of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s sexual harassment and intimidation claims, which have dominated public discourse and media coverage.

“A wide range of people and organizations have expressed strong opinions on this issue. Even Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s spouse has been forced to make a public appearance. The National Assembly is tasked with drafting national laws, and these interventions run the risk of damaging its standing,” the statement said.

As long as the dispute continues, the ACF pointed out, Kogi Central constituents’ interests are not being sufficiently represented in the Senate.

Concerning a potential bias against Northern senators, the group also noted that only Northern senators have been subject to severe sanctions, such as suspensions, in the current Senate.

ACF hopes that this is not a part of the thinly veiled anti-Arewa agenda that permeates Nigerian politics, even though it may seem unrealistic. It is unclear from the events that are developing whether this is a pattern or just a string of coincidences.

An impartial, transparent, and open investigation into the claims is demanded by ACF in order to guarantee justice and avoid excessive intervention.

It is imperative that the Senate resume its primary responsibility of enacting laws, particularly during a period when Nigerians are facing financial difficulties.

Akpoti-Uduaghan should receive a fair hearing and be treated with dignity, so the Northern Caucus in the 10th Senate should support her.

Leadership and members of the National Assembly are required to conduct themselves with integrity, discipline, decorum, and moral rectitude.

Members of the 10th Senate must behave appropriately for their positions because the Senate’s reputation is on the line.

The ACF called on all stakeholders to put the interests of the country first and make sure the Senate continues to be regarded with respect both domestically and abroad.