A coalition of women’s rights advocates from North Central, North East, and North West Nigeria, Voices for Inclusion and Equity for Women (VIEW), has demanded an independent investigation into allegations of sexual harassment made by Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, against Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
In a statement on Tuesday, the group called for an immediate probe by the Senate’s Ethics Committee, stressing that such allegations cannot be ignored or dismissed.
“We are particularly alarmed by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations of sexual harassment by the Senate President and, in the first instance, demand an immediate and impartial investigation by the Ethics Committee of the House,” the statement read.
The coalition further urged Mr Akpabio to step aside to allow for a fair and transparent inquiry, arguing that the Senate President must not wield “unchecked power to suppress, silence or intimidate female lawmakers.”
The statement was jointly signed by activists including Asma’u Joda, Saudatu Mahdi, Maryam Uwais, Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode, Fatima Akilu, Ier Jonathan-Ichaver, Amina Salihu, Mairo Mandara, and Kadaria Ahmed.
VIEW also demanded a review of Senate rules, particularly those that grant “excessive authority” to the Senate President, arguing that such powers enable abuse and marginalisation.
The group described the arbitrary reassignment of Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan’s seat as an example of how procedural gaps are used to suppress female lawmakers.
“The reallocation of seats without compliance with the rules must be restructured to promote equity and prevent the systemic marginalization of female senators,” the group said.
They emphasised the gross underrepresentation of women in the 10th Senate necessitates urgent reforms to ensure “genuine gender inclusivity” in the Senate, adding that failure to act would reinforce a culture where women remain sidelined.
The coalition noted that this is not the first time allegations of sexual harassment have been levelled against Mr Akpabio, calling for a firm stance against such claims.
“The Senate must take a stand against these allegations and send a clear message that those in power are not above accountability,” VIEW said.
They further urged all senators, senatorial aides, and legislative staff, regardless of party affiliation, to stand for justice and equity by ensuring that Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan receives a fair and impartial hearing.
