The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has urged civil society organisations (CSOs) to shelve plans for protest over the disciplinary action against Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, senator representing Kogi central.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Saturday, Blessing Akinlosotu, executive director of NCSCN, cautioned against moves that could undermine the nation’s democratic institutions.
The warning follows a judgment by a federal high court in Abuja, which affirmed the senate’s authority to discipline its members.
The court also ordered Akpoti-Uduaghan to publicly apologise within seven days and awarded N5 million in damages against her for contempt.
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Akinlosotu said there were attempts to mobilise CSOs for protest even before the judgment was delivered, describing such moves as dangerous.
He said such actions could destabilise the national assembly and derail its legislative responsibilities.
“We condemn the unwarranted call for protest and urge CSOs to exercise restraint, allowing due process to take its full course,” he said.
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“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.”
He said the civil society movement must continue to focus on its role in strengthening democracy, defending the vulnerable, and promoting inclusive development.
“We will not hesitate to sanction any member found to be involved in any activity that leads to unrest, violence, or destruction of lives and property,” he said.
Akinlosotu said the NCSCN’s call for calm is to ensure national stability and allow the national assembly to concentrate on its mandate.
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