Group urges caution over Natasha’s comments on dispute with Akpabio

The Women for Democratic Accountability (WDA), a national coalition promoting women’s participation in governance and the strengthening of democratic institutions, has called for restraint in public commentary surrounding the ongoing dispute between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio. In a statement issued at the weekend and signed by its convener, Hajia Zainab Mohammed, […]

The Women for Democratic Accountability (WDA), a national coalition promoting women’s participation in governance and the strengthening of democratic institutions, has called for restraint in public commentary surrounding the ongoing dispute between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

In a statement issued at the weekend and signed by its convener, Hajia Zainab Mohammed, the group expressed concern about what it described as Senator Natasha’s increasing use of the media to address matters currently before the courts.

The WDA said a recent social-media post by the senator on December 5 prompted renewed appeals for all parties to allow judicial processes to run their course.

According to the coalition, public exchanges on issues already being adjudicated could be misinterpreted or escalate tensions. The group noted that while lawmakers are free to express their views, they also bear a responsibility to uphold decorum and support the integrity of public institutions.

The statement said some of the senator’s comments, in the group’s view, may be capable of being perceived as critical of the Senate, its leadership, or the judiciary. WDA warned that such perceptions—if left unchecked—could affect public confidence in democratic institutions.

The coalition urged political actors involved in disputes to prioritise due process and avoid statements that may be construed as prejudicial to ongoing court matters.

WDA further encouraged the judiciary to remind litigants of the need to respect legal boundaries regarding public commentary on active cases, noting that the protection of judicial integrity is essential to democratic governance.

“The dignity of institutions and the credibility of leadership depend on adherence to due process and responsible communication,” the group said.

While reaffirming its commitment to advancing women’s rights and leadership, WDA urged Senator Natasha and all parties to allow the courts to determine the issues before them rather than relying on public exchanges.