Kaduna The ongoing dispute in the 10th Senate between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio has deeply alarmed the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF).
The ACF recognized the gravity of the accusations of sexual harassment and intimidation made by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, which have dominated public discourse and media coverage, in a statement released by Prof. Tukur A. Muhammad-Baba, the organization’s national publicity secretary.
Numerous people and organizations have expressed strong views on this issue. The husband of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has also been forced to make a public statement. The statement stated that these actions run the risk of damaging the standing of the National Assembly, which is charged with drafting national legislation.
While the dispute continues, the ACF pointed out that the Senate is not sufficiently representing the interests of Kogi Central constituents.
The group also expressed concerns about potential bias against Northern senators, pointing out that in the current Senate, only Northern lawmakers have been subject to severe sanctions, such as suspensions.
“ACF hopes that this is not part of a thinly veiled anti-Arewa agenda that permeates Nigerian politics, even though it may seem unrealistic. Whether this is a pattern or just a string of coincidences is called into question by the events that are taking place.
To guarantee justice is done and to avoid excessive intervention, ACF demands an impartial, transparent, and open investigation into the claims.
The Senate needs to get back to its primary responsibility of passing laws, particularly now that Nigerians are facing financial difficulties.
In order to guarantee that Akpoti-Uduaghan receives a fair hearing and is treated with dignity and respect, the Northern Caucus in the 10th Senate should unite behind her.
The members and leadership of the National Assembly are required to conduct themselves with integrity, decorum, discipline, and moral rectitude.
The reputation of the 10th Senate is on the line, and its members need to behave appropriately.
In its closing remarks, the ACF urged all stakeholders to put the interests of the country first and make sure the Senate continues to be respected both domestically and abroad.
