Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan claims the Senate functions like a cult, following her suspension after alleging sexual harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Despite his denial, the incident highlights gender inequality within Nigerian politics. Activists express concerns over Akpoti-Uduaghan’s treatment, while she vows to contest her suspension and continue advocating for women’s rights.
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a Nigerian senator, recently alleged that the Senate operates similarly to a cult. The claims emerged after her suspension on September 6, 2023, for reporting sexual harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who denies the allegations. This incident has ignited intense discussions regarding gender equality in Nigeria, a nation characterized by social conservatism.
In her first television interview post-suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan stated, “The Nigerian Senate operates like a cult. The Senate president runs the Senate like a dictator, not a democrat.” She expressed concerns for her safety, particularly the well-being of her two-year-old child, after her security detail was removed.
Following her petition against Akpabio, which was dismissed on procedural grounds and later resulted in her suspension for alleged disruptive conduct, Akpoti-Uduaghan reported ongoing harassment, including suggestive comments made by Akpabio. The Senator recounted a troubling incident where Akpabio remarked on her relationship with her husband, stating that his sexist remarks received laughter from other senators.
The Senate’s Deputy Chief Whip, Onyekachi Nwebonyi, asserted that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was not silenced and that her legislative activities contradicted her claims. Nonetheless, activists have voiced concern over her treatment, labeling it a setback for Nigerian women. Hadiza Ado, a women’s rights activist, noted the significance of the suspension amid a largely male-oriented Senate.
Despite some support from civil groups and women activists, Akpoti-Uduaghan also faced backlash, including misogynistic attacks on social media. Protests erupted in Abuja, with some factions defending Akpabio while others supported Akpoti-Uduaghan. Her political journey has been tumultuous; she faced challenges during her previous gubernatorial campaign and recently had election results overturned due to election-related violence.
Akpoti-Uduaghan intends to legally contest her suspension and further present her allegations of harassment. She remains resolute in her stance, stating, “I do not regret speaking out,” and highlighted that numerous women have contacted her, sharing similar experiences in their own political environments.
The ongoing conflict between Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio underscores the challenges faced by women in Nigerian politics. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension following her allegations of harassment has sparked significant commentary about gender dynamics within the Nigerian Senate. Despite her adversity, she continues to advocate for women’s rights and aims to challenge both her suspension and the pervasive culture of misogyny. The situation calls for an examination of institutional practices and the support systems available to female politicians in Nigeria.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
