The Bloggers and Vloggers, Content Creators Association of Nigeria (BAVCCA), alongside over 400 content creators, has condemned what it describes as a growing trend of media sensationalism and trial by public opinion, following sexual harassment allegations leveled against the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
In a press conference held in Abuja, Tabuko Kennedy, National Spokesperson of BAVCCA, stated that while the association upholds media freedom, truth, and accountability, it rejects the use of unverified accusations to tarnish reputations without legal due process.
The association pointed out that this is not the first time Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has made sexual harassment claims against prominent figures, citing previous allegations against Reno Omokri and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, which were never pursued in court.
They also questioned why the senator had chosen to sue Akpabio’s aide for alleged defamation rather than filing a direct lawsuit against the Senate President if the claims were true.
The association emphasised that sexual harassment is a serious issue that should not be weaponized for political or personal gain. While expressing support for victims seeking justice, they cautioned against using media platforms to run smear campaigns without concrete proof.
“We call on all bloggers, vloggers, and media houses to be responsible in reporting on this matter. Accusations must be backed by credible evidence and pursued through the courts, not social media campaigns,” Kennedy stated.
BAVCCA urged Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to either take her claims to court with solid evidence or desist from what they described as a pattern of public accusations without legal backing.
“The integrity of our democracy and public institutions must be protected from politically motivated distractions,” the association concluded.
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