By Correspondent in Lokoja.
A civil society organization, Campaign for Democracy, has waded into the political turmoil surrounding the embattled senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP), declaring that her recall process is a testament to the vibrancy of Nigeria’s democracy.
The group, in a statement signed by its President, Mr. Ifeanyi Odili, in Lokoja, argued that the recall move by her constituents would serve as a wake-up call to lawmakers, ensuring greater accountability and responsiveness to the electorate.
However, the statement did not shy away from criticizing Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recent confrontation with Senate President Godswill Akpabio, an episode that has cast a shadow over Nigeria’s political stability on the global stage.
“The crisis between the suspended senator and the Senate leadership was unnecessary and avoidable. “Rather than engaging democratic institutions to resolve her grievances, she has resorted to media campaigns and international lobbying, which only paints Nigeria in a negative light.”the group stated.
The controversy surrounding Akpoti-Uduaghan escalated following her suspension, with the senator alleging sexual harassment against Akpabio. The campaign for Democracy, however, dismissed her claims as a distortion of facts, accusing her of misrepresenting the circumstances of her suspension to gain political and international sympathy.
“Dragging the country’s name into unnecessary international controversies is a disservice to Nigeria’s democratic institutions, As a public official, she should promote national cohesion rather than tarnish the image of the Senate,”the group added.
It further questioned why the senator, who has taken legal action regarding her suspension, is simultaneously engaging in what it described as a “media trial.”
“If she believes in the judiciary, she should allow due process to take its course instead of seeking external validation,” it added.
Commending the people of Kogi Central for initiating the recall process, the pro-democracy group maintained that such actions reinforce the principles of accountability in governance.
“This is a crucial step in strengthening our democracy and ensuring that elected officials remain answerable to the people who put them in office,” according to the group.
Other members of the public believe that the unfolding drama surrounding Akpoti-Uduaghan’s political fate is shaping up to be a litmus test for Nigeria’s democratic resilience—one that could redefine the balance of power between lawmakers and the electorate.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
