Apologize to NASS to End Matter- Arewa Group tells Sen Natasha

A Northern youth group, Arewa Youth Council for Justice, has called on suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to apologize to the National Assembly to resolve the controversy surrounding her suspension.

In a statement released in Abuja, the group’s national president, Isak Mammud, and national secretary, Timothy Isaiah, urged the senator to take responsibility and prevent the matter from escalating further.

Their comments come amid a heated exchange between Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi of Ebonyi Central and former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili. The group expressed concern over the rising tension, stating that Senator Natasha could have settled the issue internally within the Senate.

“What happened during the Senate public hearing would not have escalated had Senator Natasha apologized earlier to the Senate President and the chamber. It is unfortunate that a minor issue like a change of seating position has been blown out of proportion, even leading to allegations of sexual harassment,” the group said.

The Arewa youth group also criticized the ongoing recall process against the senator, calling it a distraction that could damage Nigeria’s reputation. They commended Senate President Godswill Akpabio for maintaining his composure and urged him to accept an apology if tendered.

“Senator Natasha should listen to reason and apologize. In return, we appeal to the Senate President to forgive her and restore her to the Senate,” they added.