The NACJD demands the reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan after her suspension by the Nigerian Senate for raising sexual harassment claims against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. They criticize the action as unlawful and a violation of due process, issuing an ultimatum for a fair hearing within seven days, with plans for international action if ignored.
The Nigerian-American Coalition for Justice and Democracy (NACJD) is calling for the immediate reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following her suspension by the Nigerian Senate, which occurred after she raised allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The NACJD condemned the suspension, deeming it an infringement on justice and democracy, and highlighted its timing on International Women’s Day as particularly egregious, allegedly ignoring a standing court order.
The coalition criticized the suspension as a breach of due process, asserting that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was denied a fair hearing regarding her claims against Senator Akpabio, who had recused himself from the proceedings. A NACJD spokesperson stated, “This reckless abuse of power cannot and will not go unchallenged,” emphasizing that it reflects a broader tendency to protect influential individuals at the expense of fairness.
The NACJD has issued an ultimatum demanding the senator’s reinstatement and the commencement of a fair and transparent inquiry into her allegations within seven days. If these conditions are not met, the coalition has vowed to pursue international actions, which could lead to targeted sanctions against Senator Akpabio and other members of the Senate, including potential visa bans and asset freezes.
Furthermore, the organization has plans to escalate the issue to international bodies, including the United States Congress and the United Nations, should their demands continue to be ignored. The coalition concluded that this matter transcends the individual case of one senator, framing it as a struggle for the defense of democracy and the protection of women’s voices in Nigeria.
In summary, the NACJD is advocating for the reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following her controversial suspension by the Nigerian Senate. They have condemned this action as a significant undermining of democratic principles and due process. Their firm demands include a transparent inquiry into the allegations against a powerful senator, along with a threat of international repercussions should their demands not be met. This situation underscores the ongoing struggle for justice and the rights of women within Nigeria’s political landscape.
Original Source: businessday.ng
