The Northern Ethnic Youth Group Assembly (NEYGA) has criticised former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, for her public support of suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing it as inappropriate and inconsistent with her previous stance on accountability.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, NEYGA spokesperson Ibrahim Dan-Musa expressed concern over what the group described as Ezekwesili’s “intervention” in an issue that, in their view, should be left to legal processes.

“Dr. Ezekwesili’s defence of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan sends the wrong message,” Dan-Musa said. “The Senator has made serious allegations and must be ready to prove them in court, not rely on public sympathy or high-profile endorsements.”

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was recently suspended from the Senate following a dispute involving allegations she made against senior public officials. According to NEYGA, those allegations were not supported by documented evidence, prompting questions about motive and procedure.

“The principle of law is clear: the burden of proof lies on the accuser,” Dan-Musa said. “If she has evidence, the courtroom is the proper venue to present it.”

The group also responded to criticism directed at the Senate leadership, particularly in the handling of the petition filed against Akpoti-Uduaghan. NEYGA defended the legal process, noting that the matter was being addressed through the appropriate institutional channels, including the Attorney General of the Federation.

“This is not a case of persecution or political witch-hunt,” Dan-Musa stated. “The Senate President has followed due process, and the law should be allowed to take its course without interference or media pressure.”

In reference to Ezekwesili’s support, NEYGA said her stance risks undermining the legal framework for addressing serious allegations in public office. “It is important that individuals who have long advocated for due process and institutional integrity remain consistent,” Dan-Musa added.

The group maintained that the matter must be resolved through the courts, rather than through social media campaigns or international platforms. They cautioned against what they described as the politicisation of the case, warning that it could erode public confidence in Nigeria’s institutions.

“The responsibility now lies with the court. If the Senator’s claims are valid, the evidence will show. If not, she must take responsibility for the implications,” the statement concluded.

NEYGA said it will continue to monitor developments, urging all stakeholders to allow legal procedures to play out without further public distractions.