Support for Senate’s Discipline Efforts Advocated by Civil Society Coalition
NACOCSO has urged Nigerians to support the Senate’s pursuit of discipline and to resist undermining democratic institutions. The group endorsed the Senate’s suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, emphasizing the need for accountability and decorum in legislative conduct.
The National Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (NACOCSO) has called upon Nigerians to support the Senate’s efforts to uphold discipline and to resist undermining democratic institutions. At a rally in Abuja, National Coordinator Mr. Adebayo Ogorry endorsed the Senate’s decision to suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, emphasizing the importance of strong institutional governance for democracy to flourish.
Mr. Ogorry articulated that the Senate should not succumb to emotional pressure or social media backlash, which often disseminates half-truths. He stated that the principles of accountability, order, and respect should guide legislative processes, asserting that this is not an endeavor to silence individuals, but rather to ensure productive debate in the Senate.
He praised the Senate for maintaining the integrity and dignity of the legislative body following Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension. Ogorry urged Nigerians to discern facts from sensationalism and to reject the manipulation of gender sentiments to justifying disorderly conduct in the Senate.
According to Ogorry, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s actions—specifically her failure to adhere to a routine seating arrangement and her subsequent unruly behavior—warranted disciplinary action. He emphasized that the legislative chamber is not a venue for personal grievances, but rather a platform for orderly debate.
He pointed out that Akpoti-Uduaghan had violated procedural decorum and that the Senate Committee on Ethics concluded that she had engaged in inappropriate conduct. Ogorry stressed the necessity of consequences when senators breach the chamber’s rules, irrespective of gender.
Furthermore, Ogorry clarified that the Senate has never been against women, highlighting that all lawmakers must abide by the same standards of conduct. He noted that the allegations of sexual harassment related to Akpoti-Uduaghan were not addressed by the Senate as they are currently in court.
In conclusion, NACOCSO has strongly advocated for the support of the Senate’s disciplinary measures to ensure the integrity of democratic institutions in Nigeria. The organization stresses the importance of order, discipline, and accountability within legislative processes and rejects the notion that gender should exempt individuals from compliance with established rules.
Original Source: nannews.ng
