The National Association of Nigerian Students has urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the dispute between the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central.
The call was made by NANS in a statement issued in the capital of Ogun State, Abeokuta, on Saturday and signed by its National Vice President, Sileola Akinbodunse.
Akinbodunse pleaded with the president to resolve the legislative conflict before it worsens and embarrasses the nation abroad.
In order for peace to prevail, the student body leader also called for Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan to put down their swords.
The statement read, “The National Assembly is a key organ of the government which should be occupied by exemplary and forthright representatives of the people.
“The face-off between Senators Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senator Godswill Akpabio should not be allowed to fester.”
Furthermore, she contended that the Senate President’s sexual harassment accusation would shame the nation internationally if it were not handled and resolved appropriately.
Akinbodunse observed that though Akpoti-Uduaghan has not substantiated her allegation, the matter should be looked into with a view of ascertaining the veracity of her claims.
The student body will be closely watching the situation, she added, adding that “if the face-off is not resolved, we will not hesitate to march to the National Assembly.”
Recall that Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of sexual harassment during her appearance on national TV on Friday.
She said the Senate President had made sexual approaches towards her twice and that the seating arrangement was a ruse to evade her legislative responsibilities.
The Kogi lawmaker stated that her situation could be likened to a student failing an examination because she refused to sleep with her lecturer.
Reacting to the allegations through his media consultant, Kenny Okulogbo, Akpabio described the allegations as baseless and fictitious lies.
