By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

ABUJA — The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria has petitioned the United Nations, through the Office of the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, regarding the ongoing crisis in the Nigerian Senate following allegations of sexual assault leveled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

In a letter dated March 18, 2025, and signed by its Executive Director, Ambassador Blessing Akinlosotu, the Council emphasized the need to uphold the sanctity of the Senate as a symbol of democracy and national sovereignty.

The group called for a balanced and objective approach to the matter, asserting that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recent suspension was based on alleged violations of Senate rules rather than her sexual assault allegations.

The letter outlined specific reasons for her suspension, including: Refusal to sit in her assigned seat following a chamber rearrangement due to recent defections.

Addressing the Senate without prior recognition from the presiding officer, which was deemed a violation of Senate protocol.

Making derogatory remarks about the Senate leadership, considered a breach of decorum.

The Council cited Sections 6.1 and 6.2 of the 2023 Standing Orders of the Nigerian Senate, maintaining that the suspension was not linked to her allegations against Akpabio but rather to her conduct within the chamber.

The letter underscored the importance of respecting the Senate chamber, describing it as the core of democratic governance and a representation of national sovereignty.

“The Senate Chamber is a sacred and revered space where national laws and policies that shape a country’s destiny are deliberated and enacted. It must remain free from unnecessary disruptions,” the letter read.

While acknowledging the sensitivity of sexual harassment accusations, the group expressed concern that the focus on controversy over alleged violations of Senate rules could create confusion and distract from governance.

The Council dismissed Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations as vague and lacking specific instances of physical or verbal abuse.

“We urge a balanced approach to avoid situations where such allegations are weaponized for personal or political gains,” it stated.

The group condemned any attempt to spread misinformation and insisted that accusations of sexual assault should be backed by strong, credible evidence before being made public, particularly when directed at high-ranking officials.

“We stand by our commitment to justice but reject unsubstantiated claims aimed at tarnishing the reputations of respected leaders,” the letter concluded.