A coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has called on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to issue an apology to the Senate and bring an end to the ongoing standoff.
It will be recalled that one of the conditions set by the Senate for Natasha’s reinstatement was a written apology, one she has yet to provide.
However, in a statement released on the 19th of March, 2025, CSO leaders emphasized that the time had come for the Senator to resolve the dispute. The statement, signed by Martins Onyebuchi (Convener) and Alhaji Mohammed Audu (Co-Convener), commended Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s approach, noting that his handling of the situation demonstrated a commitment to peace.
According to the CSOs, “We demand that Senator Natasha should as a matter of urgency apologize.”
The coalition acknowledged Akpabio’s recent gesture, describing it as a reflection of his commitment to fostering equal opportunities for both male and female lawmakers in the Nigerian Senate.
“The recent window opened by the Senate President Godswill Akpabio was a good example of his respect and regard in ensuring equal opportunities for both male and female counterparts in the Nigerian Senate. The Senate President’s position justifies his recent statement that he holds women in high esteem as against what Senator Natasha is parading,” the statement read.
Highlighting the importance of Senate protocols, the CSOs asserted that the legislative body operates within clearly defined rules and procedures that must be upheld.
“World all over, the Senate operates within laid down rules and procedure, so the Nigerian Senate leadership can’t be treated with impunity and reckless abandon. It’s high time you, Senator Natasha, should acknowledge your wrongdoing by ignoring the Senate standing order and rule.”
The coalition also acknowledged Natasha’s conduct during a recent international engagement, noting that she adhered to proper protocol during her presentation.
Urging her to consider peaceful alternatives, they stated, “The group urged the Senator to consider alternative peaceful and internal mechanisms to resolve this issue, prioritizing the safety and stability of Nigeria’s democracy.”
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They also addressed the sexual harassment allegations linked to the dispute, cautioning against using such claims as grounds to disregard Senate regulations.
“Sexual harassment allegation can never be the reason for you not to conform with the Nigerian Senate laid down rules. As a respected Civil Society Organization, we promote women’s participation in politics devoid of emotions or blackmail, rather encouraging a healthy and stable coexistence between both genders.”
The CSOs expressed concern over Natasha’s appeal to the international community despite already submitting to the Nigerian judicial system.
“Running to the international community even while you have submitted to the Nigerian court was also the height of it. However, the major concern is to ensure that you’re not being influenced by external interest to disrupt leadership of the Nigerian Senate. We still greatly believe that exploring internal mechanisms could have led to a more satisfactory outcome than chasing clout because every struggle must have a clear objective.”
Praising Akpabio’s leadership, they noted his patience and commitment to maintaining stability in the Senate.
“We appreciate Akpabio’s leadership and commitment to Nigeria’s development. His dedication to the country’s progress is evident in his efforts to maintain peace and stability within the Senate in the face of provocation, his composure and openness to his colleagues show good leadership qualities.”
Calling for a resolution, the statement concluded with a patriotic appeal: “Let us move forward with patriotism, prioritizing the nation’s interest above individual concerns. We seek a peaceful resolution, and we’re confident that, together, we can achieve desired democracy and entrench rule of law.”