Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti has appealed for global support after her suspension from the Senate, which she claims was politically motivated following her sexual harassment complaint against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. At the IPU meeting, she detailed the consequences of her suspension and highlighted the systematic sidelining of women in Nigerian politics. The IPU President acknowledged her concerns, noting the need for a balanced approach in addressing the issue. The Nigerian Senate, however, asserts her suspension was due to Senate Standing Orders violations, not her harassment allegations.
Senator Natasha Akpoti of Nigeria recently voiced her concerns regarding political victimization after her suspension from the Senate, which followed her sexual harassment complaint against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. At the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting, she sought global support, expressing that women in Nigeria are systematically excluded from leadership roles.
In her address, Senator Akpoti expressed her emotional state, stating, “I come with a heavy heart from Nigeria. I am here to seek help for the women of Nigeria.” She detailed her March 6, 2025, suspension, which occurred after she filed her petition. Instead of receiving a fair investigation, she was penalized, hindering her ability to fulfil her duties as a senator.
The senator explained the severe repercussions of her suspension, noting, “My suspension came with severe conditions: my security was withdrawn,… I was barred from appearing near the National Assembly.” This experience, she argued, is indicative of broader challenges faced by women in Nigeria’s political sphere.
In response to her statements, Tulia Ackson, President of the IPU, recognized Senator Akpoti’s concerns and assured that the organization would address the issue. She emphasized the importance of a balanced approach, stating that while Akpoti’s perspective was acknowledged, it was necessary to hear from the Nigerian delegation as well before taking further action.
Additionally, the Nigerian Senate has stated that Senator Akpoti’s suspension was not related to her harassment claims but was due to violations of the Senate Standing Orders. This clarification indicates a potentially contentious narrative surrounding the circumstances of her suspension and highlights the ongoing struggle against gender bias in political environments.
Senator Natasha Akpoti’s suspension from the Nigerian Senate raises significant concerns regarding the treatment of women in political contexts. Her appeal to the IPU underscores a pressing need for global solidarity against gender discrimination. The response from the IPU indicates a willingness to investigate the matter further, while the Nigerian Senate’s clarification adds another layer to the complexity of her case. Akpoti’s experiences reflect the broader challenges faced by women in governance and leadership roles in Nigeria.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
