The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has issued a strong call to suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, urging her to present credible proof supporting her claims of sexual harassment and an assassination plot allegedly orchestrated by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Isah Abubakar, who serves as the NYCN’s National President, made this demand as Akpoti-Uduaghan appears at the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Maitama, where she is currently undergoing trial for alleged defamation. These defamation charges were reportedly brought forward by the Federal Government, following a formal complaint filed by Senate President Akpabio. The youth group has also called upon Nigerian security agencies to take proactive steps in probing the senator’s claims. Speaking to members of the press in Abuja, Abubakar emphasized the importance of evidence when such sensitive allegations are made. “It’s unacceptable for anyone to casually throw around allegations like sexual harassment without substantiating them with evidence,” he stated. “As men, we understand the severe implications such accusations carry.” Commenting on the allegations of sexual harassment made against Akpabio, Abubakar added: “We respectfully urge Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to back her claims with credible evidence. Such serious allegations demand a strong commitment to truth and justice, and we acknowledge the sensitivity involved.” He further warned against making unverified claims that could cause reputational harm and incite mistrust among Nigeria’s political stakeholders. Referencing a political gathering that took place on April 1, Abubakar noted that Senator Akpoti had claimed there was a conversation indicating a threat to her life involving Akpabio and other unnamed individuals. He said the gravity of the accusation warrants a full investigation by all appropriate law enforcement bodies. “We urge Akpoti to present the public with factual evidence as her court proceedings continue,” he said. “Transparency is crucial — the public deserves to understand the full context of these allegations to make informed judgments.” He concluded by stating, “Allegations should not be based on personal bias or for popularity. If someone alleges an assassination attempt, they must show reliable and verifiable proof.” “No one should make baseless claims that could tarnish the image of individuals or indict innocent persons unfairly,” Abubakar stressed.
National Assembly Plans Electoral Act Amendment to Reinstate Statutory Delegates The National Assembly has initiated steps to amend the 2022 Electoral Act, aiming to restore the participation of statutory delegates in political party primaries. This development was disclosed by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, during a meeting with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) leadership in Abuja. According to Akpabio, the exclusion of statutory delegates in the 2022 primaries was an unintended error that must be rectified before the next general elections. The Need for Amendment: Addressing Electoral Law Deficiencies During his address, Akpabio explained that the 2022 amendment inadvertently sidelined statutory delegates, creating what he described as “super-delegates” in the election process. “There were defects in the last Electoral Act, and we need to fix them. The omission of statutory delegates, including the president, vice president, governors, senators, and other key political figures, limited participation in party primaries. Democracy thrives on numbers, and we must ensure an inclusive process,” he stated. Akpabio further noted that the exclusion affected thousands of party members at the local, state, and national levels, weakening the democratic selection process. Additionally, he pointed out the overreaching power given to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in deciding candidates, arguing that political parties should have greater autonomy in candidate selection. “INEC seemed to have become the final arbiter on who qualifies as a candidate. Political parties should have the authority to select candidates based on their manifestos, integrity, and ability to serve the people,” Akpabio added. NBA Calls for Legal Reforms In response, NBA National President Afam Osigwe (SAN) urged the Senate to use the ongoing constitutional amendment process to reform the justice sector. He cited an example of quacks in the legal profession, referencing a case in the Igbosere Magistrate Court in Lagos in the 1990s where a person falsely claimed to be a lawyer. Osigwe’s call aligns with broader legal reforms aimed at enhancing judicial integrity and ensuring professional accountability in the legal profession. What’s Next? The Path to Electoral Reforms With growing concerns over electoral integrity, the proposed amendment is expected to enhance transparency and inclusivity in Nigeria’s electoral process. As legislative discussions progress, stakeholders will closely monitor how the changes will shape future elections. This blog post is fully optimized for Rank Math SEO, ensuring high visibility, reader engagement, and search engine indexing. Let me know if you need further refinements! ? READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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ABUJA – Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has criticized Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central), stating that her actions may negatively impact the inclusion of women in high-ranking political positions in Nigeria. During a plenary session on Tuesday, Akpabio expressed concerns that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s approach to her allegations against him could have far-reaching consequences for women seeking leadership roles in governance. “When this matter began, she initially submitted it as a petition to the Senate but did not allow deliberation before taking it to court. Even then, she escalated it to the international stage before the judiciary could resolve it,” Akpabio stated. Drawing a comparison, he said it would be similar to U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris accusing President Joe Biden of misconduct over a mere handshake, potentially setting a precedent discouraging female appointments. Despite his concerns, Akpabio urged politicians not to let one individual’s actions affect opportunities for others, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring a fair playing field for women, including his four daughters. Senate Passes Vote of Confidence in Akpabio Following Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension for misconduct and her sexual harassment allegations against Akpabio, the Senate unanimously passed a vote of confidence in his leadership on Tuesday. The motion was raised by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) under Senate Rules Orders 40 and 51. Bamidele dismissed claims that the Senate ignored sexual harassment allegations, clarifying that no formal report was submitted between August 2023 and now. The Ethics and Privileges Committee had only reviewed a petition regarding Akpoti-Uduaghan’s breach of Senate regulations. Akpabio Criticizes Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Appeal to International Bodies Akpabio also criticized Akpoti-Uduaghan for externalizing the issue by presenting her case to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in New York, where she alleged that her suspension was retaliation for speaking against sexual harassment. “She left the chamber and went on Brekete Radio and Arise Television to misrepresent the situation. She has now taken it to the IPU UN event, trying to embarrass Nigeria with a misleading narrative.” Akpabio commended Rt. Hon. Kafilat Okpara for countering Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims at the international event, ensuring that Nigeria’s image was not tarnished. Senate Leader: Allegations Are a Diversion Senate Leader Bamidele clarified that the Senate’s actions were based on legislative rules, not external pressures. He refuted allegations that Akpabio presided over his own case, stating that the proceedings strictly focused on disciplinary measures for rule violations. “Some claim the Senate has no right to suspend a senator. That is a legal matter for the courts. However, our rules are clear on disciplinary actions.” Deputy Minority Leader, Senator Olalere Oyewumi (PDP, Osun West), seconded the motion, and the Senate unanimously adopted it. Senate Focuses on Governance After Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin (APC, Kano North), called on lawmakers to redirect their focus toward governance and the 2025 budget implementation, now that the issue is before the court. The Senate’s resolutions on Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension include: However, following a motion by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (APC, Abia North), seconded by Senator Ned Nwoko (APC, Delta North), it was decided that her legislative aides would continue receiving their salaries. Despite her suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan has taken her case to the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), arguing that her suspension was unjustified. For a deeper insight into legislative processes, visit the Nigerian Senate’s Official Website. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel Kindly Share:
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Overview Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been suspended for six months by the Nigerian Senate following a sexual harassment allegation against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The decision was made during Thursday’s plenary session based on the recommendation of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions. Suspension Details The suspension entails the withdrawal of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s salary and security details. She is also barred from accessing the National Assembly premises. Her office will be locked, and her legislative aides will not receive salaries during this period. The Senate confirmed there would be no reconsideration of her status until the six-month suspension ends or if she issues a formal apology. What Led to the Suspension? The suspension stems from a recent incident where Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan protested the reassignment of her seat by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She arrived at a plenary session to find her nameplate removed and her seat reassigned. She saw this as an attempt to silence her voice within the Senate. Senate’s Stand The Ethics Committee initially recommended a six-month suspension, which was later reduced to three months after a plea by Senate Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South). However, the Senate voted overwhelmingly to uphold the six-month suspension as advised by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions. Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro supported the disciplinary action, likening it to “correcting a child,” drawing on Nigerian cultural norms. Steps to Appeal To appeal the suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan must submit a formal written apology to the Senate, acknowledging the alleged violation of Senate rules. External Link For more information on the Nigerian Senate’s code of conduct, visit the Official Nigerian Senate Website. Conclusion This suspension serves as a reminder of the stringent measures the Senate can take to maintain decorum. It also highlights the ongoing discourse on gender and power dynamics within Nigerian politics. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged President Bola Tinubu and the leadership of the National Assembly to intervene in the escalating dispute between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central. The student body warns that failure to address the issue could lead to international embarrassment for Nigeria. NANS Calls for Immediate Intervention In a statement issued in Abeokuta, Ogun State, and signed by NANS National Vice President Akinbodunse Sileola Felicia, the association emphasized the importance of resolving the tension between both senators before it spirals out of control. The conflict emerged during a Senate plenary session when Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio clashed over seating arrangements. The situation escalated when Akpoti-Uduaghan later accused the Senate President of sexual harassment. Peace Advocacy Amidst Growing Tensions Akinbodunse appealed for calm, urging both lawmakers to set aside their differences in the interest of national stability. She stressed that the National Assembly is a critical governmental institution that should be composed of responsible and ethical representatives. She further highlighted that if the allegations of sexual harassment leveled against Akpabio are not properly handled, they could tarnish Nigeria’s international reputation. The Need for a Thorough Investigation While acknowledging that Akpoti-Uduaghan has yet to provide substantial evidence to support her claims, the NANS vice president advised the Senate leadership to investigate the allegations thoroughly. She emphasized that the legislative chambers should focus on pressing national issues rather than internal disputes, especially during this period of economic challenges. Call for Reconciliation and National Interest Akinbodunse urged Senate President Akpabio to demonstrate leadership by extending an olive branch to Akpoti-Uduaghan. Likewise, she encouraged the female senator to prioritize peace and national interest over personal grievances. Students Ready to Take Action NANS has vowed to monitor the situation closely and has warned that if the dispute is not amicably settled, students across Nigeria may be compelled to stage a protest at the National Assembly. Read more about Nigeria’s legislative processes READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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On Thursday, the Nigerian Senate urged swift measures to tackle the growing drug abuse problem, especially among the country’s youth. During a one-day national event aimed at encouraging parental involvement in combating drug use and irresponsible behavior, senators warned that failure to act could have significant social and economic impacts on Nigeria’s young generation. Deputy Senate Leader Senator Lola Ashiru, representing Senate President Godswill Akpabio, stressed the urgent need for action. The event, organized by the Joint Committee on Drugs and Narcotics in partnership with the National Association of Nigerian Drug Monitoring (NANDRUM), called for a united effort to curb drug abuse. Senator Ashiru highlighted the link between drug abuse and rising crime, as well as its effects on access to quality education, emphasizing that the solution starts at home, with parents playing a crucial role. “Combating drug abuse is a fight for our future. As parents, we lead this effort, providing guidance and creating environments where positive choices are encouraged. Open discussions about the dangers of drugs are essential,” he stated. Event convener Ambassador Cristabel Okoye also underscored the role of parents in guiding children from an early age. She voiced concerns over the glamorization of drugs in movies and music videos, which she believes promotes harmful behavior, costing valuable lives. READ ALSO: N300m paid to Landowners for Airpot Project in Ekiti With the youth facing a drug addiction crisis, the Senate declared the issue an emergency and called for immediate intervention to mitigate its impact.
