Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti appeals for global support after being suspended from the Senate, claiming political victimization following her sexual harassment complaint against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She describes severe punitive measures faced due to her complaint, urging recognition of the challenges faced by women in Nigerian politics. The IPU has acknowledged her concerns while the Senate asserts her suspension aligns with procedural violations, not her allegations.
Senator Natasha Akpoti of Nigeria recently faced suspension from the Senate, which she attributes to political victimization following her sexual harassment complaint against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Speaking at the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), she called for global support, emphasizing the systematic exclusion of women from political leadership in Nigeria.
In her address to international legislators, Natasha expressed her sorrow, stating, “I come with a heavy heart from Nigeria… I am here to seek help for the women of Nigeria.” Her suspension, effective March 6, 2025, followed her submission of a petition alleging harassment, after which she received punitive measures rather than a fair investigation.
Natasha detailed the consequences of her suspension: withdrawal of her security, confiscation of official vehicles, loss of salary, and a six-month ban on presenting herself as a senator. She condemned these actions as an orchestrated effort to marginalize women in Nigeria’s political sphere and remarked, “If a female senator can be treated this way… imagine what ordinary Nigerian women face.”
President Tulia Ackson of the IPU responded to Natasha’s concerns, assuring that the organization would address the situation and would involve the Nigerian delegation in the discussions. Ackson emphasized the importance of a balanced approach, acknowledging Natasha’s claims while also permitting the Nigerian side to respond before proceeding with any actions.
In a separate statement, the Nigerian Senate clarified that Natasha Akpoti’s suspension was not directly related to her sexual harassment allegations. Instead, they cited violations of Senate Standing Orders 2023 as the reason for her suspension.
Senator Natasha Akpoti’s situation highlights significant issues regarding political victimization and the treatment of female politicians in Nigeria. Her appeal to the global community underscores the need for international support in combating the systemic exclusion of women from leadership roles. The response from the Inter-Parliamentary Union illustrates a readiness to engage with the complexities of this issue, while the Nigerian Senate’s clarification on the suspension raises questions about due process in political environments.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
