The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) and the Coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CNCSOs) have condemned the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan, describing it as a “hurried and malicious” attempt to silence her.
In a joint statement made available to WorldClass247News, the groups issued a seven day ultimatum for the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, to step aside, warning of mass protests and international mobilization if their demand is not met.
The statement, signed by CNPP deputy national publicity secretary, James Ezema, and CNCSOs national secretary, Alhaji Ali Abacha, accused the Senate of bias and disregard for due process.
They alleged tha Natasha’s six months suspension was a retaliatory measure for submitting a petition accusing the Senate President of sexual harassment.
The groups further criticized the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions for proceeding with disciplinary action against Natasha despite a Federal High Court order restraining them.
It would be recalled that Justice Obiora Egwuatu had earlier issued the order following an ex-parte application from the senator’s legal team, yet the Senate went ahead with the suspension.
The CNPP and CNCSOs also questioned the unusual speed withwith which the Senate investigated and adopted the committee’s report.
“How can Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, as the Senate Leader, justify the urgency of this process? This reeks of bias and raises doubts about the integrity of the proceedings,” the statement read.
The organizations demanded that Senator Akpabio step aside to allow for an independent and transparent investigation into the sexual harassment allegations.
They also proposed that an expanded probe panel be constituted, with its proceedings broadcast live on local and international media.
Additionally, the groups announced plans to mobilize nigerians in diaspora, female lawmakers in US, and international human rights organizations to put pressure on the Nigerian government.
They also threatened to advocate for travel bans against Akpabio and other principal officers of the Senate until justice is served.