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Alleged sexual harassment: Women Advocacy group condemns Senator Natasha’s suspension, demands justice
The National Convener of Women Advocacy for Good Governance, Hon. Haj. Nike Abdulrahman, has issued a strong condemnation of the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing it as a blatant attempt to silence a woman who dared to speak out against alleged sexual harassment by Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio.
In a statement released on International Women’s Day, Abdulrahman decried the Senate’s decision, warning that it sets a dangerous precedent for women who seek justice against abuse and misconduct.
According to her; “The action not only undermines the principles of justice and fair hearing, but also weakens the fight against gender-based violence in our political institutions,” she said.
Abdurahman, a Cultural and Heritage value advocate, further criticised the swiftness of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, questioning the Senate’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of its members.
“By silencing a voice calling for accountability, the Senate leadership is not only failing Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, but also the millions of women across Nigeria who rely on our legislative institutions for support and justice,” she stated.
In response to the unfolding controversy, Abdulrahman outlined a five-point demand which included;
“Immediate Reinstatement – The Senate must reinstate Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan without delay, ensuring she can represent her constituents without fear of political retribution.
“Independent Investigation – Senator Akpabio should step aside to allow for an impartial probe into the sexual harassment allegations, restoring public confidence in the Senate’s credibility.
“Strengthening Legislative Protections – The National Assembly must establish stronger policies to protect whistleblowers and victims of harassment, including a safe and confidential reporting mechanism.
“Public Accountability – The Senate must address broader issues of integrity and transparency within its ranks, ensuring that cases of misconduct are handled without bias.
“Support for Survivors – Civil society organisations and stakeholders are urged to rally behind victims of sexual harassment, pushing for systemic reforms that safeguard their dignity and rights.
Abdurahman, however, emphasised that the suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan contradicts the spirit of International Women’s Day, a day dedicated to championing gender equality and justice.
“Women must not be silenced or punished for speaking out against abuse.
“It is time for our leaders to uphold the law, demonstrate integrity, and ensure that the voices of women are heard and respected,” she said.
She called on the Senate to act decisively, warning that failure to address the issue transparently could further erode public trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
“We must build a governance system that is accountable, just, and equitable for all,” she concluded.
FULL SPEECH BELOW
Full speech
From the National Convener of Women Advocacy for Good Governance
Date: March 8, 2025
Urgent call for accountability and justice in Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s case
As the National Convener of Women Advocacy for Good Governance and a cultural and heritage value advocate, I stand in solidarity with Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and strongly condemn her suspension from the Senate following her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio.
This action not only undermines the principles of justice and fair hearing but also sets a dangerous precedent for the treatment of women who bravely come forward to speak out against abuse and misconduct.
The swift suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan raises serious concerns about the Senate’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of its members.
By silencing a voice calling for accountability, the Senate leadership is not only failing Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan but also the millions of women across Nigeria who look to our legislative institutions for support and justice.
In light of these troubling developments, I propose the following actions:
1. Immediate Reinstatement: The Senate must act swiftly to reinstate Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, ensuring she can represent her constituents without fear of retribution. This is not only a matter of justice for her but also a fundamental right of the people of Kogi Central Senatorial Zone.
2. Independent Investigation: Senator Godswill Akpabio must step aside to facilitate an impartial and transparent investigation into the allegations of sexual harassment. An independent probe is essential to restore public confidence in the Senate and to ensure that justice is served without interference.
3. Strengthening Legislative Protections: The Senate must implement comprehensive policies and procedures to safeguard individuals who report misconduct. This includes establishing a safe and confidential reporting mechanism and ensuring that all allegations are taken seriously and investigated thoroughly.
4. Public Accountability: The Senate leadership must address broader issues of accountability and integrity within its ranks. The ongoing scandals and allegations against Senator Akpabio and others must be handled transparently, with measures put in place to prevent such occurrences in the future.
5. Support for Survivors: We call upon all stakeholders, including civil society organisations, to rally in support of survivors of sexual harassment and to advocate for systemic reforms that protect their rights and dignity.
As we commemorate International Women’s Day today, let us reaffirm our commitment to fighting for justice and equality. Women must not be silenced or punished for speaking out against abuse.
It is time for our leaders to demonstrate integrity, uphold the law, and ensure that women’s voices are heard and respected.
We urge the Senate to act decisively and restore faith in our democratic institutions.
Together, we can build a governance system that is accountable, just, and equitable for all.
Signed:
HON. HAJ. NIKE ABDULRAHMAN
(High Chief)
National Convener
Women Advocacy for Good Governance
(A PDP Chieftain)
A12, GIM, Garki II, Abuja
