Afe Annang calls for Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recall, condemning her suspension as insufficient for disrespecting the Senate

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Afe Annang, a prominent socio-cultural organisation representing the Annang nation in Akwa Ibom State, has reacted strongly to the six-month suspension imposed on Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

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In a statement following the Senate’s decision on Thursday, the group argued that the suspension was insufficient for an individual they believe had disrespected the esteemed institution of the Senate.

The Senate suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan, withdrawing all privileges, including allowances and salary, after she made a claim of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

The suspension was imposed for violating the Senate’s standing orders by making the accusation without proper procedure.

However, members of the Afe Annang, led by His Majesty Obong Blaise Awakama, voiced their dissatisfaction with the Senate’s decision during a media interaction in Abak Local Government Area on Thursday evening.

They expressed that a mere suspension was not a sufficient punishment for a senator who had brought the Senate into disrepute. Instead, they called for Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recall by her constituents.

“We are not satisfied with just a suspension; I believe she should be recalled by her constituents and properly advised,” said Obong Awakama.

He further stressed that such behaviour, particularly from a woman, should not be tolerated in the Senate, adding that the people of Kogi Central should take responsibility for guiding their representative, or replace her with a more suitable candidate.

The elders of the Annang nation made it clear that they would not stand by as any attempts were made to damage the reputation of Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

They warned that no female senator should be used as a front to undermine Akpabio, as they remain steadfast in their support for him.

Emphasising the importance of fair treatment for all ethnic groups represented in the Senate, Obong Awakama continued, “Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio represents the people of the Annang Nation, Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District of Akwa Ibom State. He also represents the entire nation as the Senate President, and we are proud of him and stand by him.”

The elders also issued a stern warning against any political plots to remove Akpabio from office, stating that they would not idly stand by and allow such a move to succeed.

“The Annang Nation has made significant sacrifices and contributions to Nigeria, and our son, the Senate President, deserves to be treated with honour and respect,” they stated.

Furthermore, the Afe Annang elders condemned the use of a false sexual harassment claim as a political tool, reminding everyone that the matter is still under litigation and should not be used for political persecution.

“A false claim of sexual harassment, which is already a matter of litigation, should not and cannot be used as a tool for political persecution. A word is enough for the wise,” Obong Awakama concluded.

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The statement marks a strong stance of support for Senate President Akpabio from the Annang nation, reaffirming their commitment to standing by him and ensuring that justice is served.