By Abubakar Yunusa
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has called for an independent investigation into the sexual harassment allegation against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, senator representing Kogi central.
The conflict between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan began over a change in the seating arrangement in the senate chamber.
Akpoti-Uduaghan kicked against the new seating arrangement, claiming it was an attempt to silence her.
The dispute escalated on Friday when Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of making sexual advances towards her in his office and residence in Akwa Ibom.
In a statement issued on Sunday by Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the ACF spokesperson, the forum said the allegation portrays a negative impression of the “national and international image” of the senate.
“We call for an independent, open, transparent, and thorough investigation, devoid of fear, favour or interference of any kind, from any quarters to be conducted,” the statement reads.
“This will be necessary to allow the senate to return, as it should, to the serious and solemn duty of lawmaking for Nigeria at a period when citizens are being overwhelmed by dire existential living conditions on account of the impact of public policies on lives and livelihoods.”
ACF also called on the northern caucus in the senate, “to support Akpoti-Uduaghan so that she gets a fair hearing and ultimately accorded the treatment she duly deserves in the red chamber”.
The forum noted that the conflict between the duo is affecting the people of Kogi central.
“While the imbroglio lasts, the interests of the people of Kogi Central are not being adequately represented in the 10th Senate,” Muhammad-Baba said.
“While perhaps far-fetched, ACF rues the development and hopes that it is not part of the thinly veiled anti-Arewa agenda now pervading the Nigerian political process.
“In the event, ACF wonders if the unfolding events constitute a pattern or are cruel coincidences at work.”
The forum urged the leadership and members of the senate to always display exemplary behaviour in matters of ethics and moral qualities.
