By Okwe Obi, Abuja
The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has condemned the ongoing recall process of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a senator representing Kogi Central, Kogi State, who was suspended for six months for allegedly flouting the rules of the Senate.
But CHRICED Executive Director, Ibrahim Zikirullahi, in a statement yesterday, said such a drastic action was politically motivated.
He accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of yielding to political pressures from the opposition.
Zikirullahi cautioned INEC to maintain impartiality, uphold democratic values, and resist being manipulated as a tool for political victimisation.
He said: “CHRICED expresses deep concern about the recent developments related to the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Senate and the ensuing efforts to recall her as the elected representative of Kogi Central Constituency.
“Of particular concern is the involvement of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which seems to have yielded to political pressures from those orchestrating this recall initiative.
“CHRICED urges INEC to remember its constitutional obligation to maintain impartiality, uphold democratic values, and resist being manipulated as tool for political victimization.
“Natasha Akpoti has faced vilification, assault, and violation primarily due to the unfortunate circumstance of being a woman in a male-dominated Nigerian society, where patriarchal norms prevail. In addition to her gender, she is a member of the opposition party, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“We strongly calls on the relevant government agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into this misleading action and to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their conduct.
“It is imperative that such deceptive practices are addressed to maintain the integrity of the democratic process and protect the interests of the constituents.”
He also called on “conscientious Nigerians, civil society organizations, and advocates for human rights to speak out against this injustice.”
“We reiterate our demand for Senate President Godswill Akpabio to step down while an independent entity carries out a thorough and unbiased investigation into the sexual harassment allegations made against him.
“His continued leadership of the Senate in light of such serious accusations undermines the principles of justice and due process.
“No amount of diversion, including the recall of Natasha, can diminish the gravity of the sexual harassment claims against him.”