Support for Senate’s Discipline: NACOCSO Urges Nigerians to Rally

The National Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (NACOCSO) urges Nigerians to support the Senate’s efforts to maintain order and discipline amid criticisms. Mr. Adebayo Ogorry, the National Coordinator, defended the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for unruly behaviour, emphasizing democracy’s reliance on strong institutions and adherence to rules. He called for the separation of facts from sensationalism and insisted on consistent rules for all lawmakers, irrespective of gender.

The National Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (NACOCSO) has called upon Nigerians to support the Senate’s efforts to uphold order and discipline, emphasizing the need to resist actions that could undermine democratic institutions. Mr. Adebayo Ogorry, the National Coordinator for NACOCSO, voiced this appeal during a rally in Abuja, affirming the coalition’s backing of the Senate’s decision to suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for inappropriate conduct.

Mr. Ogorry asserted that the Senate ought not to yield to emotional appeals or social media criticism driven by misinformation. He emphasized that a robust democracy relies on strong institutions that adhere to established rules, stating, “We must ensure that the principles of accountability, order and respect remain the guiding forces of our legislative process.”

During his speech, Ogorry commended the Senate for enforcing principles of order and discipline. He noted that the suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan was vital in preserving the Senate’s integrity and dignity. He also urged the public to differentiate between factual reporting and sensationalism, stressing that gender sentiments should not be leveraged to justify disorderly behaviour within the Senate.

Ogorry reiterated that the legislative chamber should not be a venue for personal grievances or emotional disruptions. He highlighted that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s refusal to adhere to a routine change in seating arrangements constituted a breach of decorum expected from lawmakers. Upon being invited to a hearing by the Senate Committee on Ethics, she was found guilty of misconduct and appropriately sanctioned.

He condemned Akpoti-Uduaghan’s actions, stating that they undermined the democratic process and brought disrepute to the Senate. He clarified that her petition against the Senate President related to her behaviour rather than any allegations of gender-based discrimination, emphasizing that rules apply uniformly to all senators regardless of gender. He remarked, “The rules of the senate cannot be bent just because a particular lawmaker chooses to play the victim.”

Ogorry concluded by affirming that the Senate stands firm in its commitment to equitable enforcement of rules and that claims of sexual harassment were not presented to the Senate but were being addressed in court.

In conclusion, the NACOCSO supports the Senate’s actions to maintain order and discipline within the legislative body. Their emphasis on the importance of rules and accountability underlines their commitment to democratic principles. It is essential for all lawmakers, regardless of gender, to adhere to established protocols to ensure the integrity of the Senate. The call for unity and support for the Senate is a crucial step towards strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.

Original Source: nannews.ng