CAN calls for caution on Senator Akpabio

says calls for his resignation are premature

The Christian Association of Nigeria has called for restraint and caution in handling the allegation of sexual advances leveled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

The Christian body while dismissing calls for Akpabio’s resignation as premature, emphasized the need for elders and respected figures to mediate in the dispute to uphold the integrity of the National Assembly.

Chairman of CAN in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, Rev. Joseph Hayab, described the situation as “shameful and unfortunate,” emphasizing the importance of a peaceful resolution.

The Kogi senator had accused Akpabio of making sexual advances towards her, sparking mixed reactions from Nigerians, with some calling for the Senate President to step down.

However, CAN maintained that it was too early to demand Akpabio’s resignation, arguing that no concrete evidence had been established.

“Any group calling for Akpabio to resign should desist because no one has been proven guilty in this matter yet. Taking sides will only escalate the issue,” the Christian body stated.

CAN also encouraged a responsible and measured approach to addressing the allegation, cautioning against lack of accuracy in information dissemmination.

The statement read that no one should make light an allegation of sexual harassment, because Nigeria has moved past an era where people play the victim card.

It further stated that the focus should be on resolving the matter responsibly rather than apportioning blame.

The association also called on the media to exercise restraint in their reportage to prevent further division along gender and regional lines.

It encourged all involved parties to sheath their swords and focus on national unity, while also advising lawmakers to channel their energy into addressing the country’s pressing issues, particularly as the 2025 budget has already been passed.

CAN Chairman, Hayab, during an engagement with journalists in Kaduna on Tuesday, said there is a need for elders to intervene because Senator Akpabio and Senator Natasha have people they respect and hold in high regard.

He called on the National Assembly to take responsibility for addressing the matter.

The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) had weighed in on the issue, condemning Akpabio’s alleged mistreatment of Natasha and called for an independent investigation into the matter.

The NEF also demanded the immediate resignation of Senator Akpabio to allow for a fair anad unbiased investigation.

Akpabio has since denied the allegations, stating that he has always upheld respect for women and was even awarded most gender-friendly governor in Nigeria.

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