NCSCN writes UN over Natasha/Akpabio assault allegations

The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has written to the United Nations, raising concerns over the crisis in the Nigerian Senate following sexual assault allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

In a letter dated March 18, 2025, and addressed to the Office of the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, the Council emphasized the need to uphold the dignity of the Senate as a core democratic institution. It dismissed claims that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension was linked to her allegations against Akpabio, insisting that her removal was purely due to misconduct.

“The reasons given by the Senate for suspending Senator Natasha bordered on her unruly behavior and disregard for ethical standards, not her allegations of sexual assault,” the letter, signed by NCSCN Executive Director Ambassador Blessing Akinlosotu, stated.

The Council outlined specific infractions that led to her suspension, including her refusal to sit in her designated seat after a chamber restructuring and her decision to speak without first seeking recognition from the presiding officer. It further accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of making derogatory remarks toward Senate leadership, which it said violated the 2023 Standing Orders of the Senate.

“Specific reasons cited for her suspension include her refusal to sit in her assigned seat. The Senate observed that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan declined to occupy her designated seat in the chamber, which was considered a breach of protocol. The rearrangement of seating was necessitated by the recent decampment of some senators to the majority side (APC). Additionally, she was accused of addressing the Senate without obtaining prior recognition from the presiding officer, thereby violating established procedures,” the letter explained.

The Council accused certain individuals and groups of attempting to distort the facts surrounding the suspension, shifting the focus toward the sexual assault allegations instead of the senator’s alleged violations of Senate rules.

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“We are aware that the initial reaction to any sexual harassment accusation typically leans toward sympathy for the accuser and contempt for the accused. Unfortunately, greater emphasis is now being placed on the controversies and sexual harassment allegations rather than the senator’s deliberate violation and flagrant disobedience of Senate rules, creating confusion and distracting the Senate,” the letter read.

It also refuted claims that a recent solidarity march in support of the Senate leadership was intended to undermine the sexual assault allegations, stating that the demonstration was instead aimed at promoting justice and democratic values.

“We believe it is uncharitable to insinuate or suggest that the solidarity march was a calculated attempt to undermine the sexual accusations against the Senate President. Rather, we believe the effort was meant to foster social justice, uphold the rule of law, and encourage women’s participation in democracy,” the NCSCN stated.

Regarding Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations against Akpabio, the Council criticized the claims as vague and lacking credible evidence.

“We firmly believe that sensitive accusations such as sexual assault must be supported by strong, credible evidence before being made public to avoid sensational reportage, especially when they concern individuals in positions of authority. To date, Senator Natasha’s allegations remain vague, with no specific mention of physical or strong verbal assault,” the letter added.

The NCSCN called for national unity and responsible discourse, warning against the weaponization of sensitive issues for political purposes. It urged all stakeholders to respect the integrity of the Senate while ensuring that justice is served fairly and transparently.

“Every nation must respect its Senate chamber because it represents the core of democratic governance and serves as a symbol of democracy in every sense. The Senate chamber is a sacred and revered space where national laws and policies shaping a country’s destiny are deliberated and enacted, and the same applies to the Nigerian Senate,” the Council noted.

NCSCN further emphasized the need for a measured and balanced approach in handling the matter, urging stakeholders to prioritize national stability over personal or political agendas.