Centre condemns plans to recall Natasha from Senate

The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has condemned the alleged harassment and intimidation of Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. In a statement issued on Friday, the centre criticised the plans to recall the senator, describing them as politically motivated. It urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to exercise caution. Comrade […]

The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has condemned the alleged harassment and intimidation of Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

In a statement issued on Friday, the centre criticised the plans to recall the senator, describing them as politically motivated.

It urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to exercise caution.

Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, Executive Director of CHRICED, expressed concern over reports that constituents were being coerced into supporting the recall effort.

The statement reads: “CHRICED is also aware, as widely reported, that many constituents of Senator Natasha were deceived into signing the recall petition under the false impression that they were signing empowerment initiative launched by the Kogi State Government.

“Considering this situation, we strongly calls on the relevant government agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into this misleading action and to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their conduct. It is imperative that such deceptive practices are addressed to maintain the integrity of the democratic process and protect the interests of the constituents.

“We strongly urge the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to prioritize democratic principles and the Rule of Law by promptly conducting a comprehensive review of the recall petition. Should any discrepancies, fraudulent signatures, or procedural irregularities be identified during this assessment, it is imperative that INEC withdraws the recall notice. If the recall process continues, it is vital that INEC carries it out with the utmost neutrality, professionalism, and transparency, while ensuring close monitoring by civil society organizations and the media. Additionally, INEC must acknowledge that its activities, including this recall process, are financed by taxpayer funds.

“Any misuse of public resources for politically motivated purposes not only jeopardizes the interests of the Nigerian people but also contravenes the fundamental principles of democratic governance. INEC should also be mindful of the recent unfavorable scrutiny it has faced. We urge INEC to resist any attempts at manipulation by politicians aiming to suppress a vocal senator. A failure to maintain fairness and transparency in this process will only diminish public trust in the Commission’s integrity and, consequently, in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

“CHRICED calls upon all conscientious Nigerians, civil society organizations, and advocates for human rights to speak out against this injustice. We reiterate our demand for Senate President Godswill Akpabio to step down while an independent entity carries out a thorough and unbiased investigation into the sexual harassment allegations made against him. His continued leadership of the Senate in light of such serious accusations undermines the principles of justice and due process.

“No amount of diversion, including the recall of Natasha, can diminish the gravity of the sexual harassment claims against him. It is on record that Godswill Akpabio has a concerning history of alleged sexual harassment towards women, which has at times earned him a slap in the face. We remain steadfast in our quest for justice until Senator Natasha, along with other victimized women, receives the justice they rightfully deserve.”