The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed deep concern over the ongoing controversy between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central.
In a statement at the weekend signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Professor Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the ACF reacted to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegation of sexual harassment against Akpabio, calling for a fair hearing and due respect for the senator.
The northern group urged the Northern Caucus in the Senate to support Akpoti-Uduaghan, ensuring she is accorded the dignity she deserves in the Red Chamber.
“The National Assembly must always display exemplary behavior, personal discipline, and integrity,” the ACF stated. “Sadly, these qualities appear to be in deficit in the way the 10th Senate is being run.”
The forum warned that the controversy has serious implications for the reputation of the Senate, both nationally and internationally. It also noted that while public discourse on the matter is inevitable, it risks tarnishing the image of the legislative body.
“Even Sen. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s husband has been forced to publicly comment on the matter, and such interventions have the potential to bring the Senate into disrepute,” the statement read.
The ACF further hinted at a possible pattern of northern senators facing disproportionate sanctions in the 10th Senate, questioning whether the trend was a coincidence or a deliberate agenda against northern lawmakers.
“In the event, ACF wonders if the unfolding events constitute a pattern or are cruel coincidences at work! The public image of the Senate leadership is now less than inspiring,” the group stated.
Calling for an independent and transparent investigation into the allegations, the ACF emphasized that resolving the crisis is crucial to allowing the Senate to focus on critical legislative duties, especially as Nigerians grapple with economic hardships.
It concluded by urging the leadership of the National Assembly to act swiftly to restore order and credibility to the institution.