Nigerian Senator Accuses Senate of Cult-like Behavior Amid Harassment Allegations

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a Nigerian Senator, alleges the Senate operates like a cult under Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who denies her claims of sexual harassment. After her six-month suspension resulted from her accusations, the case raises important questions about gender equality in Nigerian politics. Despite backlash, Akpoti-Uduaghan remains committed to her cause, seeking legal action and inspiring women facing similar challenges.

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a Nigerian Senator, has alleged that the Senate operates similarly to a cult, asserting that Senate President Godswill Akpabio acts with dictatorial authority. Her claims follow a six-month suspension, during which she petitioned against Akpabio for sexual harassment, which he denies. This situation has ignited a discourse on gender equality in Nigeria, a nation known for its conservative social values.

Akpoti-Uduaghan feels that her suspension is a punitive measure for voicing her concerns about the Senate’s culture. She expressed worry for her safety, stating that her security detail has been withdrawn. “The Nigerian Senate operates like a cult. The Senate president runs the Senate like a dictator, not a democrat.”

The Deputy Chief Whip, Onyekachi Nwebonyi, insists that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims lack merit, emphasizing that her conduct discredits her assertion of being silenced. Akpoti-Uduaghan detailed incidents of alleged harassment by Akpabio, including inappropriate remarks and suggestive gestures, maintaining that these were not isolated events.

Despite her allegations, Nwebonyi refuted her claims of sexual advances, stating that Akpoti-Uduaghan was never subjected to unwanted attention by Akpabio. This controversy highlights the broader issue of women’s representation in Nigerian politics; among 109 senators, only four are women.

Her petition against Akpabio was dismissed due to procedural errors, and she was subsequently suspended for what the committee described as “unruly and disruptive” behavior. Akpoti-Uduaghan voiced concern over her safety after losing access to her security detail, reminding the public of historical violence against critical voices in Nigeria.

Civil society groups are calling for a thorough investigation into her harassment allegations. Women’s rights activist Hadiza Ado condemned Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, highlighting the ongoing struggle for female representation in government. Support varies, as seen during protests in Abuja, where contrasting groups rallied for and against Akpabio.

Akpoti-Uduaghan has faced significant public harassment since her allegations surfaced, with misogynistic backlash prevalent on social media. Her political journey has been fraught with challenges, including previous threats to her candidacy and physical assaults. Despite setbacks, she remains resilient, pursuing legal avenues to combat her suspension and continue her advocacy.

Encouraged by her family and supporters, Akpoti-Uduaghan noted that her story resonates with many women facing similar challenges. “I have gotten calls on a daily basis from women connecting with me and telling me they are experiencing the same thing in their parliament, but that they can’t speak up,” she expressed, emphasizing solidarity among women.

The case of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan highlights significant issues regarding gender equality and representation within Nigerian politics. Her allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio raise critical concerns about the culture within the Senate. Civil society remains active in advocating for her cause, emphasizing the need for a transparent investigation. Ultimately, her experience underscores the ongoing struggle faced by women in leadership positions in Nigeria, and her determination inspires solidarity among those advocating for change.

Original Source: www.bbc.com