Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti Seeks Global Support After Suspension

Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti appeals for global support after her suspension from the Senate, following her sexual harassment complaint against the Senate President. She highlights systemic issues facing women in leadership. The IPU President acknowledges her concerns, while the Senate claims her suspension was due to violations of Senate rules, not her allegations.

Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti has expressed her concerns over what she describes as political victimization following her suspension from the Senate, which occurred after she filed a sexual harassment complaint against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Speaking at the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) assembly, she called for assistance from global leaders, emphasizing the systemic exclusion of women from leadership roles in Nigeria.

During her address to international legislators, Senator Akpoti remarked, “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 outlined the events that led to her suspension on March 6, 2025, after which she expected a transparent investigation but instead faced punitive measures.

Senator Akpoti detailed the severe repercussions of her suspension, which included the withdrawal of security, confiscation of official vehicles, salary deductions, and a prohibition from coming near the National Assembly. She highlighted the broader implications of her situation, stating, “If a female senator can be treated this way in full public view, imagine what ordinary Nigerian women face every day in workplaces and universities.”

The President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, Tulia Ackson, responded to Senator Akpoti’s appeal by acknowledging her concerns and confirming that the IPU would address the issue appropriately. “Dear colleagues, there was a matter that arose… the matter that was raised by our colleague from Nigeria, Senator Natasha. We have heard her concerns…” Ackson noted, stressing the importance of ensuring a fair process by allowing the Nigerian delegation to provide their perspective.

In a separate statement, the Nigerian Senate clarified that Senator Akpoti’s suspension was not connected to her allegations against the Senate President. They stated that her suspension was due to violations of the Senate Standing Orders, asserting that these actions were not directly related to her complaint.

Senator Natasha Akpoti’s suspension highlights significant concerns regarding political victimization and the treatment of women in Nigerian leadership. Her appeals to the global community at the Inter-Parliamentary Union underscore a call for support in addressing systemic issues of exclusion. The differing narratives from Senator Akpoti and the Nigerian Senate reflect ongoing challenges in governance and the importance of ensuring balanced representation and fair processes.

Original Source: globalsouthworld.com