The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has strongly opposed calls for Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s resignation following allegations of sexual harassment levelled against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Speaking on behalf of CAN in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, Rev. Joseph Hayab described the dispute as “shameful and unfortunate,” urging national elders to intervene to safeguard the integrity of the National Assembly.
“There is a need for elders to step in. Akpabio and Natasha have people they respect and highly regard. Members of the National Assembly must take responsibility in handling this matter,” CAN stated during a media engagement in Kaduna.
CAN rejected calls for Akpabio’s resignation, describing them as premature and unjustified in the absence of concrete evidence.
“Any group calling for Akpabio’s resignation should desist, as no one has been proven guilty in this matter. Taking sides will only escalate tensions. Allegations of sexual harassment must be treated with seriousness, but also with fairness and sobriety,” CAN added.
The religious body also urged the media to avoid sensationalism in reporting the case, warning that reckless coverage could fuel national divisions along gender and regional lines.
CAN further called on political leaders to focus on governance, stressing that lawmakers should prioritise the passage of the 2025 national budget over political distractions.
