Esther Salifu
Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has urged international intervention to hold the Nigerian Senate accountable, taking her dispute with Senate President Godswill Akpabio to the United Nations, where she presented her case at a forum in New York.
Akpoti-Uduaghan has accused Akpabio of punishing her for rejecting his alleged sexual advances, and has called for international intervention to hold the Nigerian Senate accountable. She maintains that her suspension is illegal and vows to continue fighting against what she sees as injustice.
Recall Her suspension on March 6, following a heated confrontation with Akpabio over a new Senate seating arrangement, has sparked a firestorm of controversy .
At the UN forum Akpoti-Uduaghan stated “I call on human rights organisations, women’s movements, and democratic institutions to hold the Nigerian Senate accountable,”
“Nigeria needs global partners to push for women’s political inclusion, safety, and protection from political harassment.”
“My call to the international community is that the world must not stay silent as democracy and women’s rights are rolled back in Nigeria.” She also refused to apologize, saying, “I will not apologize for my truth” .
The situation has sparked protests and condemnation from various groups, including the Labour Party and the National Association of Nigerian Students. The Arewa Revival Project has also weighed in, opposing a recall ultimatum issued by the Arewa Youth Assembly .
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension has been met with demands for her reinstatement and calls for a fair and transparent investigation into her allegations. The situation continues to unfold, with Akpoti-Uduaghan vowing to resist political intimidation and continue her fight for justice .
