South-South leaders react to rift between Akpabio, Akpoti-Uduaghan

By Daniel’s Ekugo

South-South leaders on Sunday debunked news of rift between the Senate President, Chief Godswill Akpabio and the Senator Representing Kogi Central, Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, saying cordial relationship exists between the duo.

“We know that the Senate President does not have anything against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, contrary to the insinuation of political mercenaries.

“We consider it very irresponsible and most uncharitable for some individuals and groups to mischievously try to set Akpoti-Uduaghan against the leadership of the Senate for expressing her views,’’ the leaders said at a meeting on Sunday in Calabar.

They described the allegations of sexual harassment and discrimination as ‘’wicked and malicious’’.

“These smear campaigns are attempts to tarnish the image of the distinguished senators and put the popular, bright and unflappable Akpoti-Uduaghan at logger-heads with the leadership of the Senate,” they maintained.

A statement by the National Chairman of the South-South Front, Chief John Harry shortly after the meeting applauded Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan for working for the progress of the country.

He said: “There is a general misunderstanding. The unwarranted attack being launched on Akpabio and Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan amounts to an assault on our collective sensibilities.’’

Harry said the leaders took cognizance of the pleasant disposition of the Senate President, his inclusive strategy and the peaceful atmosphere he has been able to create in the Senate.

“No amount of allegations and criticisms hurled at the distinguished senators can erode their contributions to the development of the country”

The leaders called on all South-South and North Central people and indeed Nigerians to show solidarity and support for the Senate President and the member representing Kogi Central in the Senate.