Sexual Harassment: Senate Doing The Needful On Natasha Akpoti’s Allegation – First Lady

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu has said the Senate is taking the necessary steps to address the sexual harassment allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

On February 20, Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, clashed with Akpabio on the Senate floor over changes to seating arrangements.

She later claimed that her challenges in the Senate began after she rejected sexual advances from Akpabio.

On Wednesday, she formally submitted a sexual harassment petition against the Senate President. However, the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges dismissed the petition, citing breaches of due process and legal limitations.

Speaking to journalists ahead of International Women’s Day, the First Lady emphasized that the Senate chamber should be a place of honour and not controversy. She also encouraged Nigerian women to assert themselves in leadership and refuse to be sidelined.

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“I know with what is going on in the Senate, you may ask why I haven’t taken a position. I believe the Senate is doing what is needful because that’s its responsibility,” Tinubu said.

“We shouldn’t be hearing things like that. It’s a matured chamber and should be treated with respect. Just being in that place is an honour.

“I was there for 12 years, even in my younger days, and I’m still trying to look young. People compliment you all the time. Women, raise yourselves. Don’t be in a position where men will talk to you anyhow. You can always shut them down before they start.”

She acknowledged the strides women have made over the years, from traditional matriarchs to contemporary figures like Zuriel Oduwole, who advocates for peace.

The First Lady also urged Nigerian women to continue striving for excellence, emphasizing that they have what it takes to succeed.

Hafsoh Isiaq

Hafsoh Isiaq is a graduate of Linguistics. An avid writer committed to creative, high-quality research and news reportage. She has considerable experience in writing and reporting across a variety of platforms including print and online.

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