A coalition of women’s groups, Womanifesto, has expressed strong support for suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, citing concerns over harassment, intimidation, and threats to her safety.
The body condemned the alleged unjust treatment she has faced, which they claim aims to undermine her legitimacy and discredit her actions.
In a statement, Womanifesto voiced serious concerns over security risks facing Akpoti-Uduaghan, particularly reports suggesting plans to arrest her upon her return to Nigeria.
They also denounced efforts by detractors to recall her through her constituency and called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to uphold the rule of law.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has maintained her commitment to her constituents and democratic principles, participating in the recent Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting despite not being officially nominated. The senator self-funded her trip and attended as a duly elected representative, rejecting claims of illegitimacy and asserting that she did not misuse state resources.
Womanifesto argues that the attack on Akpoti-Uduaghan stems from political vendettas aimed at silencing her. They further reject any impending arrest based on unsubstantiated allegations.
Also raising concerns regarding the compromised nature of the Senate’s Ethics Committee, which they claimed has been influenced by public statements from Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Womanifesto is demanding several actions, including the establishment of an ad-hoc special committee to investigate issues related to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s attendance at the IPU meeting. They stress the need for an impartial committee free from political bias.
The coalition also seeks an independent investigation by an investigator from the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC), assigned to work alongside the special committee to ensure an unbiased investigation.
They also call for public hearings, transparency in the investigation, and public hearing processes, allowing all relevant testimonies to be presented.
According to Womanifesto, both Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Akpabio should be invited to testify in a transparent manner.
Womanifesto emphasizes the necessity for the Senate to act with integrity and fairness, stating that any attempts to undermine Akpoti-Uduaghan compromise the democratic values cherished by Nigerians. They urge all stakeholders to respect her rights and dignity as an elected representative, pledging to monitor the situation closely until justice is served.
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