Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti faces suspension from the Senate after alleging sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Addressing the IPU, she calls for global support, highlighting the systemic exclusion of women in leadership. Although the Senate claims her suspension is unrelated to her allegations, Akpoti’s situation underscores significant political challenges for women in Nigeria.
Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti has voiced her distress over her suspension from the Senate, which follows her sexual harassment complaint against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Addressing the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), she sought support from the international community, highlighting the ongoing systematic exclusion of women from political leadership in Nigeria.
At the IPU gathering, Senator Akpoti expressed her sorrow, stating, “I come with a heavy heart from Nigeria. But first, I’d like to apologise to honourable members – I am not here to bring shame to my country. I am here to seek help for the women of Nigeria.” She detailed her suspension, initiated on March 6, 2025, which she believes was a retaliatory measure against her for submitting a harassment petition.
During her address, she recounted the harsh conditions imposed on her post-suspension, including withdrawal of security, loss of official vehicles, and a severed salary, along with a six-month prohibition from representing herself as a senator. Natasha denounced her treatment as part of a broader effort to marginalize women politically, suggesting that it exemplifies the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerian women.
In response to her claims, IPU President Tulia Ackson recognized Senator Akpoti’s grievances and assured her that the organization would address the issue while also allowing the Nigerian delegation to express their viewpoints. “We have heard her concerns, and as an institution, the IPU will be taking the concerns raised,” Ackson commented, stressing the importance of a balanced perspective in the deliberation process.
Conversely, the Nigerian Senate has dismissed any connection between Senator Akpoti’s suspension and her allegations against the Senate President, attributing her suspension to violations of Senate Standing Orders 2023, specifically Sections 6.1 and 6.2.
Senator Natasha Akpoti’s suspension has raised significant concerns regarding the treatment of women in Nigerian politics. Her appeal to the global community underscores the need for support in addressing systemic issues related to female representation and harassment. The contrasting responses from the IPU and the Nigerian Senate highlight the complexities in resolving allegations of political victimization, reinforcing the urgency for dialogue and reform in these matters.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
