The Nigeria Centre for Public Integrity (NCPI) has issued a compelling appeal to Nigeria’s security agencies, demanding a comprehensive investigation into a series of audio and video clips, as well as WhatsApp messages, purportedly revealing damaging evidence against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The evidence, presented by Sandra Duru, also known as Prof. Mbeke, a former close associate of the senator, has ignited a public controversy and raised serious questions about Akpoti’s conduct.
Legit.ng reported that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has reacted to United States-based activist, Dr. Sandra Duru, aka Professor Mgbeke’s allegations against her.
The suspended federal lawmaker said the claim that she lied against the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio about the sexual harassment is false.
The Kogi Central senator said the allegations are manipulated to serve Mgbeke’s ulterior motive of playing the script of Senator Akpabio.
But in a statement made available to Legit.ng on Tuesday, May 6, signed by Joshua Chinedu, the NCPI underscored the gravity of the situation.
The group noted thatSenator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s initial allegations against a high-ranking official, the third-highest in the country, cannot be dismissed.
They argued that the subsequent counter-allegations, supported by what appears to be substantial evidence from a former confidante, necessitate a thorough and impartial inquiry.
NCPI raises alarm, says “no one above the law in Natasha’s scandal”
“The integrity of our nation is at stake,” stated Chinedu.
“If these allegations are not meticulously handled and addressed, Nigeria risks international ridicule, particularly from the same international community to which Senator Akpoti previously appealed for intervention.”
Speaking further, the NCPI highlighted the ongoing sexual harassment case involving Akpoti, where she has yet to provide concrete evidence to substantiate her claims.
This lack of substantiation, they argue, amplifies the urgency of investigating Duru’s counter-allegations.
The group specifically called on the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force to initiate a joint investigation, potentially involving Interpol, to ensure a transparent and unbiased process.
They emphasized the need to invite both Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Dr. Sandra Duru for questioning, aiming to uncover the truth and provide clarity to the Nigerian public.
“It is imperative that Nigerians are given a clear and unequivocal account of these events,” Chinedu added.
“The credibility of our public institutions and the rule of law depend on our ability to conduct thorough and unbiased investigations, regardless of the individuals involved.”
Additionally, the NCPI’s statement reflected the growing public concern over the conflicting narratives and the potential implications for Nigeria’s political landscape.
“The call for a robust investigation underscores the importance of upholding transparency and accountability in public office, ensuring that justice is served and public trust is maintained. The security agencies are now faced with the challenge of navigating a complex and highly sensitive case, with the nation watching closely.
“None of the above person involved is above law or have immunity that can’t be arrested and prosecuted,” Chinedu asserted.
Natasha: Akpabio speaks on organ harvesting allegation
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that the president of the Senate Godswill Akpabio has denied contacting US-based Dr. Sandra Duru, also known as Prof Mgbeke.
Akpabio denied any involvement regarding the allegations linking him to an organ harvesting scandal.
Akpabio’s aide, Kenny Okolugbo, gave the clarification in a video release online on Saturday, May 3, accompanied by a terse statement.