A coalition of civil society organisations spearheaded by the Nigeria Integrity Watch has issued a formal alert to Nigeria’s top security agencies, the Department of State Services and the Nigaria Police Force and others.
The group claims to have uncovered a sophisticated plot to undermine the authority of the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and destabilise the country’s democratic institutions.
In a Thursday statement signed by NIW’s National Convener, Dr. John Nangi, and sent to newsmen, alleged that the scheme reportedly involves a coordinated campaign of misinformation and the use of fabricated sexual harassment allegations to tarnish Akpabio’s reputation.
‘The alleged blackmail scheme involves the coordination of several women, who are reportedly being housed in a luxurious hotel in Lagos.
”These women are being coached and guided by individuals identified as blackmailers, with the intent of fabricating damaging narratives involving a new sexual harassment allegation against the Senate President,” the statement said
The group further alleges that a powerful appointee in the All Progressives Congress government and a disgraced senator are behind this plan to blackmail the Senate President.
Additionally, the coalition said, ”A network of influential online content creators, social media influencers, and bloggers is being mobilised to disseminate misinformation and propaganda as part of this insidious plot. This orchestrated effort, we argue, is designed to undermine not only Akpabio’s reputation but also the credibility of the Senate and the entire Nigerian government.
”In light of these grave allegations, the Nigeria Integrity Watch has issued a clarion call to key security agencies, urging them to remain vigilant and proactive. The organization has specifically appealed to the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to closely monitor the situation and take necessary actions to thwart any plots that aim to destabilize the authority of the Federal Republic of Nigeria through falsehoods and malicious propaganda.”
Nangi emphasised the importance of safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions, stating, “This is not just an attack on an individual; it is an attack on our democracy. We must stand united against any attempts to undermine our nation’s leadership through deceit and manipulation.”
He also insisted that the potential ramifications of such a conspiracy could further erode public trust in government institutions and exacerbate the already tense political climate.
The body said, ”The call for vigilance from civil society organisations and security agencies alike underscores the need for collective action to protect the integrity of the nation’s leadership and uphold the principles of democracy.
As this situation develops, it will be crucial for all stakeholders, including the media, to remain informed and engaged, ensuring that the truth prevails and that those who seek to manipulate and deceive are held accountable for their actions.”
