The Bloggers and Vloggers, Content Creators Association of Nigeria (BAVCCA) has condemned what they described as a “media trial” of Senate President Godswill Akpabio following sexual harassment allegations made against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
At a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, BAVCCA’s National Spokesperson, Tabuko Kennedy, raised concerns about the increasing tendency of public discourse to pass judgement on sensitive issues without waiting for legal proceedings.
He stated, “We, the Bloggers and Vloggers, Content Creators Association in Nigeria (BAVCCA), alongside over 400 content creators, have been following with keen interest the recent sexual harassment allegations leveled against the President of the Senate, His Excellency, Senator Godswill Akpabio, by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
“The BAVCCA is deeply concerned about the growing trend of media sensationalism and trial by public opinion on sensitive issues without proper legal backing. While we uphold the importance of media freedom, truth, and accountability, we reject the use of unverified accusations to tarnish reputations without legal processes being duly followed.”
Kennedy urged journalists and content creators to exercise caution in their reporting, harping on the need for ethical reporting to avoid sensationalism.
“As content creators committed to ethical and factual reporting, we refuse to be drawn into sensationalizing claims that lack legal backing.
“We call on all bloggers, vloggers, and media houses to be responsible in reporting on this matter. Let us not allow unverified allegations to destroy reputations without concrete proof. As a professional media body, we refuse to be tools for smear campaigns, and we urge all Nigerians to demand facts over fiction.
“Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan must either take her claims to court and present concrete evidence or cease this relentless pattern of media accusations. The integrity of our democracy and public institutions must be protected from politically motivated distractions,” Kennedy added.
