In a bold and unified stance, the Coalition of National Civil Society Organisations (CNCSOs) and the Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) have condemned the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing it as a calculated attempt to silence dissent and perpetuate the status quo in Nigeria’s legislative chambers.
A statement, jointly signed by Comrade James Ezema, Deputy National Publicity Secretary of CNPP, and Alhaji Ali Abacha, National Secretary of CNCSOs, highlighted the personal and professional risks faced by whistleblowers in Nigeria. The groups assert that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension is a direct response to her petition against Senator Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of sexual harassment and abuse of office.
They noted that the President of the Senate’s decision to preside over the plenary that led to her suspension is the height of abuse of office, likened to a university Vice Chancellor expelling a student union leader for speaking truth to power. The CNCSOs and CNPP argued that this act of victimization undermines the principles of democracy and accountability.
Adding to the controversy, they described the removal of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s security details as “malice taken too far,” especially in a country grappling with significant security challenges.
The groups warned that this decision endangers her life as it was meant to send a chilling message to those who dare to hold public officials accountable.
The CNCSOs and CNPP called for the immediate reversal of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension and the restoration of her security details. They urged Nigerians and the international community to strongly condemn what they describe as an “international show of shame” and a “betrayal of democratic principles.”
“This is a defining moment for Nigeria’s democracy,” the statement concluded, warning that history will judge harshly those who remained silent in the face of such injustice. The groups insist that the actions of the Senate must reflect justice, fairness, and accountability to uphold the trust of the Nigerian people.