A coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has thrown its weight behind Senate President Godswill Akpabio, urging him to remain focused on delivering legislative interventions to Nigerians.

The Stay Alert Human Right Awareness Initiative, a prominent civil rights group, expressed its support in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja by its Executive Director, Lary Onah.

Vote of Confidence in Akpabio’s Leadership

The group commended Akpabio’s leadership of the 10th Senate, describing him as an impactful leader and one of the most gender-tolerant Senate Presidents in Nigeria’s history.

“We pass a vote of confidence on the Senate President. He has displayed professionalism and maturity, especially in the way he handled the altercation with Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over the Senate seating arrangement,” Onah said.

CSOs Dismiss Allegations of Sexual Harassment

The group also dismissed allegations of sexual harassment leveled against Akpabio, calling them unfounded distractions aimed at undermining democracy and the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

“Nigerians and lawmakers believe in Akpabio’s ability to navigate governance challenges. The accusations are nothing but an attempt to blackmail the Senate leadership and derail legislative focus,” Onah added.

Call for Apology from Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan

The CSOs further criticized Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for what they termed a violation of Senate rules regarding seating arrangements.

“She should apologize and withdraw her petition against the Senate President, which appears to be a strategy to manipulate Senate leadership into doing her bidding,” the statement read.

Solidarity March in Support of Akpabio

The group announced plans to mobilize a solidarity march in support of Akpabio and the current Senate leadership, urging him to remain undeterred by distractions and continue working for the progress of Nigeria.

This development comes amid growing political tensions in the Senate, as Akpabio faces criticism and resistance from some lawmakers over various leadership decisions.