The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has expressed concern over the recent suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Senate and the subsequent attempts to recall her as the elected representative of Kogi Central Constituency.
Grassroots Parrot reports that CHRICED is cautioning the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) against succumbing to political pressure and called for adherence to democratic principles.
A statement issued by Comrade Ibrahim Zikirullahi, CHRICED’s Executive Director, on Friday, emphasized the need for INEC to uphold its constitutional duty with neutrality and resist being used as a tool for political victimization.
“Senator Natasha Akpoti has endured attacks and persecution, largely because she is a woman in a male-dominated society and a member of the opposition party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Her outspokenness and determination to challenge corruption have made her a target of political intimidation,” Zikirullahi stated.
The Executive Director recounted previous attempts to derail Natasha’s political career, including the destruction of key roads leading to her constituency before the 2023 parliamentary elections.
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“Despite securing overwhelming support from her constituents, her victory was allegedly denied by INEC, which declared the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate as the winner. Following a legal battle, Natasha was reinstated months after her colleagues had already taken office.” He noted.
However, the CHRICED boss argued that Natasha continues to face persecution, alleging that Senate President Godswill Akpabio orchestrated her suspension under dubious circumstances after she resisted his alleged sexual advances.
“Her refusal to comply with corrupt political figures has led to efforts to silence her permanently through an orchestrated recall process. The Kogi State government, in collaboration with INEC, appears to be spearheading this politically motivated move,” the statement added.
Zikirullahi drew parallels between this development and past dictatorial regimes, citing the role of government-backed groups in undermining democracy.
He pointed out that the petition for Natasha’s recall was spearheaded by “Concerned Kogi Youths and Women,” led by Charity Ijese Omole, an aide to Kogi State Governor Ahmed Musa Ododo.
Highlighting the inconsistencies in the recall process, CHRICED also pointed out that INEC initially rejected the recall petition due to procedural irregularities, only to reverse its decision within three days. A similar pattern was observed in a Kogi State High Court ruling that initially halted the recall process but later rescinded its order under unclear circumstances.
“Reports indicate that many constituents were deceived into signing the recall petition, believing they were endorsing a government empowerment initiative. This deceitful act warrants thorough investigation and accountability,” Zikirullahi said.
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The statement, however, called on INEC to ensure transparency and fairness in handling the recall process, urging the Commission to verify the authenticity of the petition and uphold its duty to democratic governance.
“INEC must recognize that its credibility is at stake. Any failure to conduct this process with neutrality will erode public trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions,” CHRICED warned.
CHRICED, in the statement, also reiterated its demand for Senate President Akpabio to step down pending an independent investigation into the sexual harassment allegations against him.
“No amount of diversion, including the recall of Senator Natasha, can downplay the gravity of the accusations against Akpabio. His continued leadership of the Senate undermines justice and due process,” the statement said.
CHRICED also called on civil society organizations, human rights advocates, and concerned Nigerians to stand against what it termed “an orchestrated political attack” and to demand accountability from those in power.