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Summary
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension for speaking out against Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s reports of sexual harassment is a clear abuse of power, silencing women in leadership and undermining democracy. Justice demands Akpabio’s resignation, Natasha’s reinstatement, and systemic reforms to protect women in politics.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been suspended from the Nigerian Senate for six months without pay. Her crime? Speaking out against Senate President Godswill Akpabio for sexual harassment. Instead of investigating the allegations, the Senate removed her from her seat. This is political retaliation, an abuse of power, and a direct attack on women in leadership.
Nigeria’s Senate has 109 seats. Only four belong to women. Removing one of the few female voices sends a clear message: women who speak up against misconduct will be punished. This is not just about one senator. It is about the right of women to participate in governance without fear of intimidation or career-ending consequences.
This happened during Women’s History Month, just days before International Women’s Day. At a time when the world is celebrating women’s achievements and fighting for gender equity, Nigeria’s political leadership is moving backwards. The silencing of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan shows that women in power are tolerated only when they do not challenge the status quo.
The Senate’s decision is unconstitutional. No due process was followed. There was no investigation, no fair hearing, and no justification beyond silencing a woman who dared to challenge misconduct at the highest level. If a sitting senator can be removed for speaking out, what happens to everyday Nigerian women facing harassment, discrimination, and abuse?
Women in politics already face significant barriers. From threats and harassment to systemic exclusion, they are constantly reminded that their presence is unwelcome. When one of the few female senators is removed for calling out sexual harassment, the message is clear: there is no place for women who refuse to stay silent.
This is not just a Nigerian issue. It is a global issue. If the world allows this injustice to stand, it sets a dangerous precedent. Nigeria is a democracy, yet its highest legislative body is using its power to silence and punish women.
Our Recommendations:
- The immediate resignation of Senate President Godswill Akpabio. His abuse of power and failure to allow due process have made his leadership illegitimate.
- The full reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, with her salary and entitlements restored. She was elected by the people and should not be removed without due process.
- A transparent and independent investigation into the sexual harassment allegations against Akpabio. Silence and cover-ups should not be the Senate’s response to serious accusations.
- A review of Senate disciplinary procedures to prevent political victimisation and the misuse of suspensions. No senator should be removed for exposing wrongdoing.
- Legal reforms to protect female politicians from harassment, intimidation, and unfair suspensions. Women in leadership should not fear punishment for speaking the truth.
This is about justice, democracy, and the protection of women in leadership. We call on all well-meaning Nigerians to also sign this petition to demand justice. If we do not act now, the silencing of women in politics will continue. We refuse to accept a system where women are punished for speaking out.
