The NACJD demands immediate reinstatement of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, suspended after alleging harassment by Senate President Akpabio. They view the suspension as an attack on justice, claiming due process was violated. The coalition threatens international action, including sanctions, if their demands go unmet, underscoring the broader significance of the issue.
The Nigerian American Coalition for Justice and Democracy (NACJD) demands the immediate reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was suspended by the Nigerian Senate after alleging sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. They condemn her suspension as a significant breach of justice and democracy, highlighting that it coincided with International Women’s Day and purportedly violated a court order.
NACJD asserts that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension exemplifies a failure of due process, as she did not receive a fair hearing regarding her allegations, with Akpabio recusing himself from the situation. The coalition’s spokesperson describes the situation as “a reckless abuse of power,” emphasizing that it demonstrates Nigeria’s Senate prioritizing the protection of influential individuals over fundamental justice principles.
The coalition has set a seven-day ultimatum for the senator’s reinstatement and demands a fair, independent, and transparent hearing into the allegations. Should these demands remain unmet, NACJD has indicated it will pursue international action, which may include targeted sanctions against Senator Akpabio and other Senate members, such as visa bans and asset freezes.
Moreover, if the situation is not resolved, NACJD plans to escalate their demands to the United States Congress and the United Nations, seeking their intervention. The coalition highlighted that their stance transcends individual cases, aiming to uphold democracy, amplify women’s voices, and reinforce the principle that no one is above the law.
The NACJD stands firmly against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, calling it an affront to justice and democracy. Their demands for reinstatement and a fair hearing reflect broader issues regarding due process and women’s rights in Nigeria. If unmet, the coalition intends to seek international intervention, emphasizing that these issues affect the integrity of governance and human rights in Nigeria.
Original Source: businessday.ng
