The National Coalition of Civil Society Organizations urges Nigerians to support the Senate’s efforts to maintain discipline, specifically endorsing the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for disorderly conduct. The coalition stresses that such measures are necessary for upholding democratic integrity and that all senators, irrespective of gender, must adhere to established rules. They emphasize a commitment to accountability and order in the legislative process, distancing these measures from accusations of gender discrimination.
The National Coalition of Civil Society Organizations (NACOCSO) has called upon Nigerians to support the Senate in maintaining order and discipline while rejecting any efforts that undermine democratic institutions. Mr. Adebayo Ogorry, the National Coordinator of NACOCSO, voiced this appeal during a rally in Abuja, advocating for the Senate’s decision to suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Ogorry emphasized that emotional appeals and social media narratives should not sway the Senate’s decisions. He asserted that Nigeria’s democracy hinges on strong, disciplined institutions governed by rules, distancing it from personal or partisan manipulation. He stated, “We must ensure that the principles of accountability, order and respect remain the guiding forces of our legislative process.”
He acknowledged the Senate’s commitment to uphold principles of order and dignity, asserting that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension was essential for preserving the integrity of the legislative body. He urged Nigerians to discern facts from sensational narratives while resisting the exploitation of gender sentiments to obscure disarray within the Senate.
Ogorry noted that the legislative chamber is not a platform for personal grievances or emotional outbursts. Instead, it should foster orderly debate reflective of democratic principles. He explained the circumstances that led to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, highlighting her refusal to adhere to a routine seating arrangement change and her subsequent disorderly conduct.
He condemned Akpoti-Uduaghan’s actions for tarnishing the Senate’s reputation and undermining democracy, reiterating that her refusal to comply with established seating arrangements demonstrated a disregard for democratic norms. Ogorry reassured that the Senate’s practices are not discriminatory against women, stressing that every senator must abide by institutional rules regardless of gender and that unruly behavior could not be excused on gender grounds.
Ogorry clarified that no member is above the rules and while allegations of harassment had surfaced, those matters were not under consideration by the Senate but were instead being addressed in court.
The National Coalition of Civil Society Organizations reinforces the importance of discipline and order within the Senate to uphold Nigeria’s democracy. Their support for the Senate’s actions against disorderly conduct emphasizes the need for rules to apply equally to all lawmakers. The call for accountability, respect, and sound democratic practices remains vital for the integrity of legislative processes. The emphasis on separating facts from sensationalism also aims to maintain a clear focus on governance rather than personal grievances.
Original Source: nannews.ng
