Sexual Harassment Allegation: Women’s Group Faults Natasha’s Suspension, Seeks Justice
The Women Advocacy for Good Governance has condemned the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, calling it an attempt to silence a woman who spoke out against alleged sexual harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
In a statement marking International Women’s Day, the group’s National Convener, Hon. Hajia Nike Abdulrahman, described the Senate’s action as a dangerous precedent that discourages victims of abuse from seeking justice.
“This suspension is a direct attack on justice and fairness. It weakens the fight against gender-based violence and reinforces a culture of silencing women in leadership,” Abdulrahman stated.
As an advocate for cultural and heritage values, she questioned the speed of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, suggesting that it reflects a troubling disregard for due process and the rights of lawmakers.
“By punishing a senator for speaking out, the Senate is not just failing Akpoti-Uduaghan but also millions of Nigerian women who look to our institutions for protection and justice,” she added.
In response to the controversy, Abdulrahman outlined a five-point demand to address the issue:
- Immediate Reinstatement – Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan must be reinstated without delay to prevent political victimisation.
- Independent Investigation – Senator Akpabio should step aside to allow a fair and impartial probe into the harassment allegations.
- Legislative Protections – The National Assembly must introduce stronger policies to protect whistle-blowers and victims of harassment.
- Accountability and Transparency – The Senate must demonstrate integrity by handling misconduct cases without bias.
- Support for Survivors – Civil society groups must unite in advocating for victims and pushing for reforms that protect women’s dignity.
Abdulrahman criticised the Senate’s action as a contradiction of the values celebrated on International Women’s Day.
“Women must not be punished for seeking justice. Leadership must reflect integrity, fairness, and a commitment to upholding the law,” she said.
She warned that failure to handle the issue transparently would further erode public trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
“Our democracy must be built on accountability, justice, and equal rights for all,” she concluded
