The National Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (NACOCSO) urges Nigerians to stand with the Senate in maintaining discipline and upholding democratic values. The group supports the Senate’s recent decision to suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for disorderly conduct and seeks to emphasize the importance of decorum and respect within the legislative process.
The National Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (NACOCSO) has called on Nigerians to support the Senate’s efforts to uphold discipline and reject any actions that may undermine democratic institutions. At a rally in Abuja, National Coordinator Mr. Adebayo Ogorry emphasized the importance of maintaining order within the legislative body and asserted support for the Senate’s suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Mr. Ogorry articulated that Nigeria’s democracy depends on strong, disciplined institutions governed by established rules, rather than manipulated for personal or partisan gains. He urged the public to distinguish between factual discourse and sensationalist narratives that attempt to foster disorder within the Senate.
During the rally, he praised the Senate for prioritizing principles of accountability and decorum, stating that the suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan was warranted to preserve the integrity of the Senate. He reprimanded her for engaging in disorderly conduct and expressed concern over the exploitation of gender sentiments surrounding her actions in the Parliament.
Ogorry clarified that the Senate’s adjustments to seating arrangements are standard procedures intended to uphold order and respect. He noted Akpoti-Uduaghan’s failure to comply with these changes demonstrated a disregard for Senate rules, emphasizing that all senators, regardless of gender, must adhere to established standards of conduct.
He reaffirmed that the rules apply equally to all lawmakers and that any behaviors undermining the decorum of the Senate must have corresponding consequences. Additionally, Ogorry mentioned that allegations of sexual harassment against Akpoti-Uduaghan do not pertain to the Senate and have been directed to the courts for resolution.
In summary, the National Coalition of Civil Society Organisations encourages Nigerians to support legislative discipline and the integrity of democratic institutions. The collective stance calls for adherence to rules without prejudice to gender, maintaining that all lawmakers must display decorum and accountability in their roles. Ultimately, the integrity of Nigeria’s Senate depends on the collective commitment to uphold these standards.
Original Source: nannews.ng