The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has called for calm and restraint amid growing agitations for protests over Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan's reinstatement case, urging civil society organizations to allow due process to take its course.
During a press conference at the NCSCN headquarters in Abuja, Executive Director Amb. Blessing A. Akinlosotu condemned calls for protests following a Federal High Court judgment that upheld the Senate's constitutional authority to discipline its members.
"We condemn the unwarranted call for protest and urge CSOs to exercise restraint, allowing due process to take its full course," Akinlosotu stated. The court ruling imposed a ₦5 million fine on Senator Natasha and mandated a public apology within seven days for contempt of court.
Akinlosotu expressed concern over reports of clandestine meetings aimed at instigating protests even before the judgment was delivered, warning that such actions could potentially destabilize the National Assembly and interfere with its legislative responsibilities.
Call for Responsible Civil Society Action
The NCSCN emphasized the vital roles of civil society in strengthening democracy, protecting marginalized groups, and promoting inclusive development. However, the organization made it clear that it would not hesitate to sanction any member found participating in activities that could lead to unrest or violence.
"We respectfully appeal to all well-meaning Nigerians and civil society actors to desist from further agitation until the legal process is concluded and the official judgment is publicly available for objective review," Akinlosotu added.
The council's intervention aims to prioritize stability and allow the National Assembly to focus on its legislative duties for the benefit of all Nigerians.
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