The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed concern over the allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation leveled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by his female colleague, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central).
ACF’s position was disclosed in a press release obtained by newsmen and signed by its national publicity secretary, Professor Tahir Muhammad-Baba.
The forum, which advocates for the Northern region, decried that this incident has attracted strong opinions from the public and has stained the reputation of the Senate.
“As things stand now, in the eyes of the general public, the allegations in question could have definite negative implications for the national and international public image of the Red Chamber of Nigeria’s National Assembly,” the statement reads.
Calling for a thorough investigation into the matter, the forum urged Northern Senators to rally around Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and ensure she receives a fair hearing and is accorded the respect she deserves.
While emphasizing the importance of exemplary leadership from the National Assembly, the forum also expressed regret over the integrity deficit and other shortcomings in the 10th Senate.
