The Nigerian-American Coalition for Justice and Democracy (NACJD) has called for the immediate reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, condemning her suspension from the Nigerian Senate as a blatant attack on justice and democratic principles.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended after she raised sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The NACJD criticized the move, calling it “an outrageous assault on justice, democracy, and the rule of law,” especially as it happened on International Women’s Day and allegedly in defiance of a court order.
The coalition argued that the senator was denied a fair hearing, noting that due process was ignored despite Akpabio recusing himself from the case.
“This reckless abuse of power cannot and will not go unchallenged,” a NACJD spokesperson said. “It sends a disturbing message that Nigeria’s Senate is more interested in protecting powerful men than standing for fairness and accountability.”
The group issued a seven-day ultimatum, demanding not only Akpoti-Uduaghan’s reinstatement but also an independent and transparent investigation into her allegations.
Should these demands be ignored, NACJD warned it would escalate the issue internationally. Proposed actions include lobbying for sanctions against Akpabio and other senators involved such as visa bans, asset freezes, and restrictions on international participation.
The coalition also plans to take the matter to the U.S. Congress, the United Nations, and other global institutions if the Nigerian Senate fails to respond.
“This is bigger than one senator,” the statement said. “It’s about safeguarding democracy, amplifying women’s voices, and ensuring no one is above the law.”
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