The National Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (NACOCSO) has called on Nigerians to support the Senate’s efforts to uphold order and discipline while rejecting attempts to undermine the country’s democratic institutions.
Speaking at a rally in Abuja on Wednesday, NACOCSO’s National Coordinator, Mr. Adebayo Ogorry, stated that the coalition—comprising 27 civil society organizations (CSOs) and NGOs—fully supports Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the legislative body’s decision to suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Ogorry warned against emotional blackmail and social media outrage based on misinformation, stressing that the Senate’s authority must be upheld to ensure a strong and disciplined democracy.
“Nigeria’s democracy thrives when its institutions remain firm and governed by established rules—not when they are manipulated for personal or partisan interests,” Ogorry said.
He emphasized that the Senate’s role is to promote accountability and order in governance, not to serve as a stage for theatrical disruptions.
“This is not about silencing anyone; it is about ensuring that the Senate remains a place of reasoned debate, where order and respect are upheld,” he added.
Ogorry praised the Senate for its commitment to discipline and institutional integrity, insisting that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension was a necessary step to maintain the Senate’s dignity.
He dismissed claims that the decision was influenced by gender bias, urging Nigerians to separate facts from sensationalism.
“The issue at hand is not about gender-based suppression but about maintaining the rules and decorum expected of lawmakers,” he stated.
Ogorry explained that Akpoti-Uduaghan was sanctioned for disorderly conduct after refusing to comply with a routine seating arrangement change in the Senate.
He noted that the Senate Committee on Ethics invited her for a hearing, where she was found guilty of unruly behavior and was sanctioned accordingly.
“We condemn Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s actions, which have brought disrepute to the Senate and undermined the legislative process. Her refusal to comply with seating arrangements showed blatant disregard for the institution’s rules,” he said.
Ogorry reiterated that the Senate follows a long-standing protocol for seat reshuffling, ensuring order and respect for seniority among lawmakers.
“The Senate’s rules apply equally to all senators, regardless of gender. No lawmaker—male or female—is above the rules of the chamber,” he said.
He clarified that the allegations of sexual harassment against a senator had never been a matter before the Senate, as it had been taken to court.
“The issue at hand is about conduct within the Senate, not any external allegations. Any senator who repeatedly flouts the rules must face the consequences,” Ogorry added.
NACOCSO urged Nigerians to support democratic institutions and resist efforts to manipulate public sentiment against the Senate’s disciplinary measures.
