Akpoti-Uduaghan/Akpabio feud: NCSCN urges out-of-court resolution

The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has urged all parties involved in the sexual harassment allegation by Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President, Godswill Akpabio to explore an amicable, possibly out-of-court, resolution. Executive Director of the National Civil Society Council of Nigeria, Mr Blessing Akinlosotu, said this at a press […]

The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has urged all parties involved in the sexual harassment allegation by Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President, Godswill Akpabio to explore an amicable, possibly out-of-court, resolution.

Executive Director of the National Civil Society Council of Nigeria, Mr Blessing Akinlosotu, said this at a press conference on Wednesday in Abuja.

He noted that a prolonged legal battle would serve as distractions and consume valuable time and resources.

Akinlosotu also called for restraint by all stakeholders, state and non-state actors alike to avoid rekindling a divisive and distracting saga that had previously disrupted the smooth operations of the Senate and was exploited by political actors for vendetta and blackmail.

“We call on respected national figures and elder statesmen to exercise restraint and avoid inflammatory remarks that may worsen tensions or deepen divisions.

“Given Nigeria’s current fragile state as clearly evident in the situation in Benue State in particular, and other parts of the country, any protest risks being hijacked and leading to disorder or destruction. We firmly advise against mobilisations that could escalate tensions and likely result in breakdown of law and order,” he said.

He also urged civil society organisations and non-governmental organisations to stay focused on national development and resist being used by political interests to incite unrest or destabilise the polity.

Akinlosotu added: “We call on the judiciary to handle the ongoing cases with the highest standards of professionalism and objectivity. A forensic and evidence-based approach is essential to ensure justice is served on all sides.

“The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria will not hesitate to sanction any of its members found to be involved in protests or activities that lead to violence or destruction of lives and property under the guise of civic agitation. As the watchdog of society and the conscience of the people, we remain vigilant and will act swiftly to prevent any descent into chaos.