Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has taken her suspension from the Nigerian Senate and allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio to the Inter-Parliamentary Union in Geneva, Switzerland.
Describing the suspension as illegal, she addressed the global parliamentary body, stating that the situation highlights the challenges women face in Nigerian politics. She expressed deep concerns over what she called a systemic attempt to silence female lawmakers who speak out against injustice.
The Senate suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months, cutting off her allowances and security, a decision she insists was politically motivated. The suspension followed her public accusations that Akpabio made unwanted sexual advances toward her in 2023, a claim that has stirred significant controversy in Nigeria’s political space.
Before her suspension, she had filed a petition on the matter, but the Senate Ethics Committee dismissed it on Wednesday, stating that it failed to follow proper procedures. She maintains that the decision was a deliberate move to suppress her voice and discourage other women from challenging abuse of power.
READ ALSO: Falana challenges illegal suspensions, cites judicial precedents
Her ordeal traces back to an earlier dispute over changes to her Senate seating arrangement, which she had publicly opposed. She believes the incident escalated into a broader effort to undermine her position in the chamber.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, one of only four female senators in the 109-member legislative body, has remained vocal despite the backlash. She insists that her fight is not just personal but part of a larger struggle for accountability and fairness in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Addressing the IPU, she urged international bodies to monitor the treatment of female politicians in Nigeria and push for stronger protections against political victimization. She expressed hope that her case would bring global attention to the need for gender equity and justice in governance.
Her decision to take the matter beyond Nigeria signals a new phase in the battle for women’s representation and fairness in the country’s political system. As reactions continue to pour in, the controversy surrounding her suspension and allegations against Akpabio remains a focal point in national discourse.
Crediblenews.ng.com
