Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, calling it a major setback for women’s rights in Nigeria.
Speaking through his media adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku criticized the Senate’s decision to suspend the Kogi Central senator for six months without proper investigation, stating that it undermines affirmative action and limits women’s opportunities in leadership.
A Controversial Suspension
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on Thursday after rejecting a new seat assigned to her in the Senate chamber and publicly accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment.
Atiku questioned the fairness of the decision, emphasizing that no investigation had been conducted before the drastic action was taken.
“Has there been an investigation? No. So, Atiku’s position remains unchanged. Any society that does not create an enabling environment for women to thrive is failing itself,” he stated.
“With International Women’s Day coming up, this suspension raises serious concerns about Nigeria’s commitment to gender equity. If we are not actively supporting women in politics, business, and leadership, then we are underutilizing half of our population’s potential.”
Peter Obi, PDP Youth Leader React
Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi also weighed in on the matter, expressing disappointment through his former media aide, Tanko Yunusa, who described the situation as “disheartening.”
PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, further criticized Senate President Akpabio for not stepping aside to allow an independent probe into the sexual harassment allegations against him.
“The Senate President should have excused himself. If he were a man of integrity, he would have stepped down for a thorough investigation,” Osadolor said.
He also condemned opposition lawmakers for failing to take a stand when it mattered.
“They were all trying to stay in Akpabio’s good books instead of speaking up for justice. Natasha could have been anyone’s sister, wife, daughter, or mother. Seeing state power used to silence her is disgraceful.”
A Fight Far From Over
While the Senate may have had its way with the suspension, opposition leaders believe that the conversation about gender equality and women’s representation in politics is far from over.
“Though the majority may have their way today, the minority will have their day,” Osadolor added.
