Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan accused the Senate of acting like a cult following her six-month suspension after alleging sexual harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She expressed fears for her safety, stated she faced retaliation for speaking out, and highlighted the lack of female representation in Nigerian politics. Advocates have rallied for her cause while she prepares to legally contest her suspension and reiterate her harassment claims.
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a Nigerian Senator, has stated that the Senate operates similarly to a cult, following her suspension for alleging sexual harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Akpoti-Uduaghan claims this punishment is a consequence of her speaking out against the system, raising concerns for her safety after losing her security detail. The Senator accused Akpabio of dictatorial behavior, asserting that dissent is not tolerated within the Senate.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations of sexual harassment began in 2023 during a visit to Akpabio’s residence, where she alleged he made inappropriate advances and sexist remarks. Akpabio has denied these allegations, with Senate Deputy Chief Whip Onyekachi Nwebonyi stating that the Senator’s claims of unwanted advances are false and her actions contradict her narrative. Nonetheless, Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasizes that her experiences with Akpabio were not isolated incidents.
The dismissal of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition against Akpabio due to procedural errors has sparked concern regarding gender equality in Nigeria, a country with few female parliamentarians. Following her suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed fears for her and her child’s safety, alluding to past instances where individuals with dissenting opinions faced violence. Women’s rights activists lamented her suspension, citing the need for greater representation and support for women in Nigerian politics.
Civil society groups and some social media advocates have rallied behind Akpoti-Uduaghan, while she has also faced backlash from critics. Marauding protests split between support for Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan further highlight the division within the country. Despite facing severe emotional and social strain, Akpoti-Uduaghan is determined to continue her fight, asserting that her story is reflective of the experiences many women face in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Akpoti-Uduaghan intends to appeal her suspension legally and plans to reiterate her sexual harassment claims. She articulates her resolve, feeling bolstered by familial support and other women who relate to her struggles in a male-dominated environment. She emphasizes the necessity of speaking out, especially for those who have yet to find their voices in the fight against systemic oppression within politics.
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims regarding the Nigerian Senate operating like a cult underscore significant concerns surrounding gender equality and the treatment of women in political spheres. Her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio have led to her suspension, provoking discussions about the political climate for women in Nigeria. Despite her challenges, Akpoti-Uduaghan remains resolute in advocating for herself and others facing similar issues, signaling a call for accountability and change within the Senate and beyond.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
