x

CACOL Condemns The Silencing And Unjust Suspension Of Senator Natasha.

By Jabiru Hassan, Kano

The Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership (CACOL) has expressed deep disappointment and strong condemnation of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, chaired by Neda Imasuen, for dismissing the petition filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central. In a statement released by the organization’s Director of Administration and Programmes, Tola Oresanwo, on behalf of the Chairman, Mr. Debo Adeniran, CACOL described the Senate Committee’s decision as an attack on democratic accountability.

The petition, filed by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, raised critical issues that CACOL believes deserved thorough scrutiny and consideration, particularly focusing on the principles of transparency, good governance, and respect for due process. The organization expressed concern that the rejection of the petition without proper deliberation undermines the integrity of the legislative process and discourages meaningful discourse on governance.

“The committee’s rejection of the petition without proper deliberation sends a troubling signal about the integrity of the legislative process and the commitment of those in power to uphold the rights of all representatives to be heard,” the statement read.

CACOL further emphasized that Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, should have recused himself from overseeing the committee’s decision due to his potential conflict of interest in the matter, advocating for an independent body to investigate the allegations raised by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.

The organization also condemned the Senate’s decision to suspend Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months, labeling it a blatant attack on free speech and the right of elected officials to serve their constituents without undue repression. CACOL called the suspension a reflection of political intolerance and suppression in a time when democratic engagement and transparency should be upheld.

“We denounce this unjust and disproportionate punishment imposed on Senator Natacha. Silencing an elected representative is not only an attack on her personally but also an attack on the voices of the people she represents. Such actions set a dangerous precedent for democracy and governance in our country,” CACOL stated.

The organization has called on the Senate to immediately reconsider its decision and reinstate Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, urging all democratic institutions, civil society organizations, and the public to stand in solidarity against any attempts to erode democratic freedoms and suppress political opposition.

CACOL reaffirmed its commitment to defending democracy, justice, and the rule of law, pledging to continue advocating for a political environment where all voices can be heard and where no representative is punished for fulfilling their mandate.

Hot this week

Kaduna NNPP Suspends Chairman Over Misconduct, Appoints Acting Leader

By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna The Kaduna State chapter of the...

Bingham University, commissions multipurpose laboratory, office complex

By Israel Adamu,JosBingham University, Karu,on Thursday achieved...

Issa- Onilu’s digital drive in NOA

By Paul OdenyiAs Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu marks two years...

Southern Ijaw Stakeholders caution Tompolo over Bayelsa visit

By Our CorrespondentA coalition of stakeholders and youth...

FG Launches Made-in- Nigeria Mobile App to Boost Community Healthcare Services

By Joyce Remi-BabayejuThe Federal Government has launched a...

Hazras Charity Foundation Concludes Educational Kits Distribution in Kano, Expands to Jigawa State

By Jabiru HassanThe Hazras Charity Foundation, a delivery partner...

Kaduna Women Journalists Urge Government Action on Poor Power Supply, Commend State’s Climate Efforts

By Achadu Gabriel, KadunaThe Nigeria Association of Women Journalists...

Gov. Ododo Hails Appointment of Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu as New Chief of Army Staff

By Noah Ocheni, LokojaKogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman...

NDDC Commissions Naval Facility in Bayelsa to Boost Security in Niger Delta

By Amgbare Ekaunkumo, YenagoaThe Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC)...

KOSIEC Releases Timetable for 2026 Kogi Local Government Elections

By Noah Ocheni, LokojaThe Kogi State Independent...

Terrorist Invade Southern Kaduna Community, Abduct 10 Residents in Kauru LGA

By Achadu Gabriel, KadunaTerrorists have again attacked Southern Kaduna,...

Related Articles

Popular Categories

spot_imgspot_img