A political and civil advocacy group, The Action Collective, has called on the President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, to temporarily step aside from his position amid ongoing allegations of misconduct.

In a statement issued Thursday and signed by its National Coordinator, Mr. Teddy Onyejuwe, the group expressed concern over what it described as “growing public unease” regarding the Senate President’s continued leadership in light of recent accusations.

The group referenced a recent claim made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, urging the Senate to treat the matter with the seriousness it demands. While reiterating that every individual is presumed innocent until proven otherwise, Action Collective emphasized the need for accountability and the preservation of institutional credibility.

“In a functional democracy, public officials facing serious allegations often step aside to allow for independent and unhindered investigations,” the group stated. “Nigeria must not be seen as condoning conduct that undermines the dignity of any group, especially women.”

Without delving into the specifics of past or unverified claims, the group maintained that the Senate should demonstrate a strong commitment to transparency and ethical standards.

“We believe in due process, but also in institutional integrity,” the statement continued. “The Senate President should consider stepping aside, at least temporarily, to uphold the dignity of the National Assembly and to reassure citizens and the international community of Nigeria’s commitment to justice.”

The group criticized what it described as a “lukewarm” response by the Senate to the matter, warning that inaction could damage public trust in democratic institutions.

Action Collective concluded by calling on civil society organizations, women’s rights groups, and international partners to support the call for transparency.

“If Nigeria must command global respect, it must be seen to uphold moral and ethical leadership,” Onyejuwe added.