Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central believes her suspension from the Nigerian Senate is a deliberate attempt to silence her. In an interview with the BBC on Tuesday, she revealed that the suspension was an act of victimization meant to suppress her voice.
Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Senate President Akpabio
Akpoti-Uduaghan shared disturbing details of her encounter with Senate President Godswill Akpabio at his country home. She explained that while touring his residence with her husband, Akpabio allegedly squeezed her hand in a suggestive manner. She added, “As women, we understand what it means when a man squeezes our hand like that.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan further mentioned Akpabio’s comment, which implied an intimate encounter in the future: “Now that you’re in the Senate, I’ll make an opportunity for us to come here and have a good moment.” This remark, she claims, was inappropriate and suggestive.
More Inappropriate Remarks by Akpabio
The senator also described another incident inside the Senate chamber. One day, she rushed to work and forgot to wear her ring. Akpabio, noticing her bare finger, reportedly said, “Oh Natasha, you are not wearing your ring, is this an invitation to treat?” She viewed this as another example of sexual harassment.
Suspension Linked to Disagreement Over Seating Arrangement
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6 for alleged “gross misconduct” following a disagreement with Akpabio over seating arrangements. However, the senator insists that her suspension was politically motivated and aimed at silencing her dissent.
Senate Denies All Allegations
In response to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims, Senate Deputy Chief Whip Onyekachi Nwaebonyi strongly denied the accusations. Nwaebonyi stated that Akpabio never made any sexual advances toward Akpoti-Uduaghan. Additionally, he dismissed the senator’s claim that the Senate was attempting to silence her. Nwaebonyi argued that her legislative activities did not support her accusations.
Taking the Case to the United Nations
Despite the Senate’s rebuttal, Akpoti-Uduaghan has not backed down. She presented her allegations at a United Nations forum, seeking international intervention. In her address, she called for accountability and transparency within the Nigerian Senate.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s bold move has drawn significant attention, shedding light on the ongoing issues within Nigeria’s legislative body. Her case has sparked conversations about the treatment of women in Nigerian politics. It has also ignited calls for stronger accountability measures for public officials.
As the dispute continues, it remains to be seen how the Nigerian Senate will respond to these serious accusations. The senator’s claims of harassment and victimization are contributing to a broader debate about the need for reform in Nigeria’s political system.
