By Henry Ovie | Warri, Delta State
…Make Akpoti-Uduaghan’s cause your own, South-South leaders tell Nigerians
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension Sparks Nationwide Outcry, South-South Leaders Demand Senate Unity and Leadership Reform
Prominent South-South political leaders have thrown their weight behind Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, condemning her recent six-month suspension from the Nigerian Senate as a strategic blunder and a violation of democratic norms.
In a strongly worded statement issued in Port Harcourt, the South-South Front (SSF), led by Chief John Harry, urged Nigerians across geopolitical zones to rally behind Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing her suspension as “an insult to Kogi Central constituents and Nigerian women.”
The leaders called out the role of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, urging him to abandon partisan retaliation, political vendettas, and what they described as a “shortsighted leadership style.”
“This is not just about Kogi Central. It’s about the future of Nigeria’s democracy and the integrity of our legislative institution,” the group stated.
They alleged that elements within the Kogi APC were orchestrating a campaign to undermine Akpoti-Uduaghan through fake recall petitions and hired thugs.
“Political clowns and saboteurs masquerading as Progressives are trying to confuse the people. But Kogi Central must stand firm against anti-democratic forces,” they declared.
The leaders further rebuked calls for Akpoti-Uduaghan’s arrest, labeling them as “baseless and foolish,” and condemned the Executive Watchdog for its “vicious and sickening attacks” on the senator.
Describing her as a symbol of courage, transparency, and people-focused governance, the statement noted that Akpoti-Uduaghan remains on the “right side of history” and is a valuable political asset whose presence in the Senate is crucial for national progress.
In a rare appeal, the group called on Senator Akpabio to consult elder statesmen, including High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, the Alema of Warri, to mediate and resolve the ongoing political impasse.
“Rather than waste public resources on litigation and political persecution, the Senate should work toward institutional integrity, legislative stability, and restoring public trust,” they added.
The South-South leaders concluded by pledging unwavering support for Akpoti-Uduaghan and reaffirming her importance in Nigeria’s journey toward gender equity, rule of law, and accountable governance.
