The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria has called for restraint from all stakeholders regarding the controversy surrounding Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

The Council noted that the matter is already before the courts and cautioned against public statements that may either prejudice the judicial outcome or mislead public opinion.

In a statement by the Executive Secretary of the Council, Blessing Akinlosotu, he decried the political exploitation of the issue, urging parties to explore an amicable resolution, possibly out-of-court, to avoid prolonged legal battles.

Akinlosotu also advised against protests that could escalate tensions and lead to a breakdown of law and order, given Nigeria’s current fragile state.

He called on respected national figures and elder statesmen to exercise restraint and avoid inflammatory remarks, even as he urged civil society organisations to focus on national development and resist being used by political interests.

He said: “Over the past months, we have been actively engaged in strategic assessment and interventions that did not require public or media exposure.

“However, recent developments compel us to speak up and issue a strong advisory regarding the renewed controversy surrounding the crisis in the Nigerian Senate involving the Senate President, His Excellency, Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON, and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

“This matter has, regrettably, become over-politicized, and every Dick, Tom, and Harry now claims an opinion, often misinformed or exaggerated. We are not here to delve into the allegations, defenses, and counterclaims. Rather, our objective is to call for restraint by all stakeholders, state and non-state actors alike to avoid rekindling a divisive and distracting saga that had previously disrupted the smooth operations of the Senate and was exploited by political actors for vendetta and blackmail.

“We wish to remind the general public that these issues are already before competent courts, with attorneys representing both parties. It is, therefore, highly prejudicial for anyone to make pronouncements that may pre-empt judicial outcomes or mislead public opinion”.

The Council warned that it will sanction its members involved in protests or activities that lead to violence or destruction of lives and property.

“We urge all parties to explore an amicable, possibly out-of-court, resolution. Prolonged legal battles serve as distractions and consume valuable time and resources.

“We urge all CSOs and NGOs to stay focused on national development and resist being used by political interests to incite unrest or destabilise the polity. Nigeria is mourning the dead. Any aggrieved individual can take this opportunity to vent.

“We call on the judiciary to handle the ongoing cases with the highest standards of professionalism and objectivity. A forensic and evidence-based approach is essential to ensure justice is served on all sides.

“The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria will not hesitate to sanction any of its members found to be involved in protests or activities that lead to violence or destruction of lives and property under the guise of civic agitation. As the watchdog of society and the conscience of the people, we remain vigilant and will act swiftly to prevent any descent into chaos,” the statement added.