The Voices for Inclusion and Equity for Women (VIEW) condemned Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s treatment of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as gender-based intimidation. They emphasize the need for systemic changes to support women’s inclusion in Nigerian politics. The incident involved Akpoti-Uduaghan’s seat reassignment and Akpabio’s attempt to silence her during discussions. VIEW aims to fight for equity and justice for women in governance.
A coalition of women’s rights advocates in Nigeria, known as Voices for Inclusion and Equity for Women (VIEW), has publicly condemned Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s treatment of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from Kogi Central. They characterize his actions as part of a troubling pattern of gender-based intimidation in the political landscape of Nigeria, calling for scrutiny and resistance against such behaviors.
In a statement, VIEW criticized Senator Akpabio’s attempt to mute Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and remove her from the Senate chamber. They assert that this reflects the systemic suppression of women in leadership roles, with continued harassment representing a culture where women face hostility instead of respect when seeking accountability and equity.
Multiple members of VIEW, including prominent advocates like Asma’u Joda and Maryam Uwais, signed the statement expressing concern over Akpabio’s previous dismissive behavior towards female lawmakers. They emphasize this pattern as indicative of a broader disregard for women in political governance, calling for urgent reform to create an inclusive environment in the Senate.
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s assertive response, “I am not afraid of you,” was highlighted as an empowering message for women leaders, symbolizing resilience against institutional oppression. VIEW challenged Akpabio’s condescending engagement, arguing that a leader should converse with respect and fairness rather than through intimidation.
They urge for systemic change within the Nigerian Senate to encourage full participation of women in political processes without facing hostility. VIEW emphasizes, “A democracy that marginalizes women’s voices is a democracy in crisis,” reaffirming their commitment to advocating for justice, equity, and accountability in Nigeria.
The controversy involving Akpoti-Uduaghan arose when her Senate seat was reassigned without her consent, moving her from the minority section to the back row. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan challenged this decision, which led Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno to cite rules allowing such reassignments and threaten penalties for non-compliance.
Despite protests, Akpabio upheld the decision and attempted to silence Akpoti-Uduaghan by muting her microphone and ordering her removal. She resisted these actions, asserting her right to speak under Senate procedures, claiming she will continue representing her constituents against potential suspensions set by Senate leadership.
VIEW has condemned the treatment of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by Senate President Godswill Akpabio as indicative of a systemic trend of gender-based intimidation in Nigerian politics. Their calls for reform stress the importance of inclusivity and respect for women in leadership roles. The coalition vows to continue its advocacy for the rights and representation of women in governance despite ongoing challenges.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
