The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has demanded a due process in the reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, following the ruling of the court while urging civil society organisations (CSOs) to exercise restraint and allow the process to take its course.
On Friday the Federal High Court in Abuja directed the Nigerian Senate to review its suspension procedures, following a ruling that declared the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan unlawful and unconstitutional.
Delivering judgment on Friday, Justice Binta Nyako, had ordered the immediate recall of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, stating that her suspension amounted to a denial of representation for the people of Kogi Central.
The judge described the suspension as “unduly excessive” and criticised the Senate’s disciplinary process, advising a comprehensive review of its rules on sanctions.
In a press conference held at the NCSCN headquarters in Abuja, the Executive Director, Blessing Akinlosotu condemned the unwarranted call by CSOs for protest, citing the need to respect the rule of law and avoid actions that could undermine judicial and legislative institutions.
Akinlosotu expressed concerns over clandestine meetings and instigation of CSOs towards public protest before the judgment was delivered, stressing that such actions could destabilise the National Assembly and undermine its legislative duties.
“We condemn the unwarranted call for protest and urge CSOs to exercise restraint, allowing due process to take its full course,” Akinlosotu said.
“We respectfully appeal to all well-meaning Nigerians and civil society actors to desist from further agitation until the legal process is concluded and the official judgment is publicly available for objective review.”
The NCSCN emphasised the vital roles of Civil Society, including strengthening democracy, protecting the rights of the marginalised, and promoting inclusive development.
“We will not hesitate to sanction any member found to be involved in any activity that leads to unrest, violence, or destruction of lives and property,” Akinlosotu warned.
