Group Condemns Recall Efforts Against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

Group Condemns Recall Efforts Against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

A civil society group, Womanifesto, has strongly opposed the reported attempts to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, citing concerns over political intimidation and harassment.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the advocacy group described the recall move as politically motivated and called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to uphold constitutional principles and democratic processes…………READ MORE

Allegations of Political Coercion

Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, the convener of Womanifesto, expressed serious concern over reports indicating that constituents were being pressured into supporting the recall effort.

“We are alarmed by the harassment and intimidation targeted at Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. Such actions not only undermine the rule of law but also threaten democratic representation,” the statement read.

The group alleged that the recall campaign is a calculated attempt to discredit the senator following her participation in the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting in Geneva. Despite not being officially nominated by the Senate, Akpoti-Uduaghan attended the event in a personal capacity, covering all expenses without state funds.

Her attendance has since sparked political controversy, with some actors accusing her of misconduct. Womanifesto, however, dismissed these claims, arguing that her participation was in line with her role as an elected representative.

Calls for Transparency in Recall Process

Womanifesto urged INEC to ensure transparency and resist external influences that could compromise the recall process.

“We demand that INEC remains impartial and prevents any form of coercion or political interference in the recall proceedings,” the group emphasized.

Additionally, concerns were raised regarding the senator’s safety, with reports suggesting plans for her possible arrest upon returning to Nigeria. Womanifesto denounced such threats as unconstitutional and an infringement on her rights as a lawmaker and citizen.

Legal and Political Implications

The move to recall Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan comes amid tensions surrounding her suspension by the Senate. Political analysts speculate that the recall is being orchestrated by high-profile figures, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.

Under Nigerian law, a recall process requires at least 50% of registered voters in a constituency to sign a petition, which must then be verified by INEC before a referendum is conducted. Given the complexity of the process, no Nigerian senator has ever been successfully recalled.

Womanifesto claims that many constituents are being coerced into signing the petition, raising doubts about the legitimacy of the recall campaign.

Calls for Independent Investigation

In response to the controversy, Womanifesto has called for an independent investigation into the allegations against Akpoti-Uduaghan. The group urged the Senate to establish a special ad hoc committee for this purpose, arguing that the existing ethics committee lacks the neutrality required for a fair inquiry.

Furthermore, Womanifesto recommended that the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) oversee the investigation to ensure impartiality.

As the situation unfolds, stakeholders continue to watch closely, emphasizing the need for justice, fairness, and adherence to democratic principles.