Kafilat Ogbara, representing Nigeria at the IPU meeting, has demanded a fair investigation into sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. This comes after Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan raised her concerns during the meeting, associating her six-month suspension from the Senate with her complaints against Akpabio. Ogbara stressed the importance of human rights protection and institutional integrity while calling for accountability surrounding the investigation.
Kafilat Ogbara, Nigeria’s delegate at the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting, called on the National Assembly to conduct a transparent investigation into sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Ogbara, who leads the House Committee on Women Affairs, emphasized the need for safeguarding human rights and protection from intimidation for all parties involved in these allegations during a press briefing at the UN headquarters in New York.
She stated, “I called for the following actions: A thorough and unbiased investigation; ensuring that all claims and defenses are examined fairly and transparently; protection of all parties involved; safeguarding the rights of all individuals; and preventing any form of intimidation or retaliation, accountability and transparency.” Ogbara’s remarks were catalyzed by claims made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who reported experiencing harassment that led to her suspension from the Senate.
During the IPU session, Akpoti-Uduaghan labeled her suspension as an unlawful act aimed at silencing her over her accusations against Akpabio. She sought international intervention, underscoring her fight as being representative of broader struggles faced by Nigerian women against misconduct in the legislative framework. In support, IPU President Tulia Ackson acknowledged the severity of the situation while indicating that the Senate should be allowed to present its case before any action is taken.
Ogbara reiterated the need for a fair examination of both allegations and responses, insisting on the importance of protecting institutional integrity against intimidation. She emphasized the duty of the National Assembly to achieve a just and transparent resolution. She proclaimed, “Upholding institutional integrity by ensuring that due process is rigorously followed… Most importantly, ensuring that we uphold justice, fairness, and posterity to judge us right.”
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to justice and human rights, Ogbara cited ongoing legislative reforms designed to improve women’s representation and combat gender-based violence, such as the Reserve Seats Bill. She stated, “I would like to reaffirm that Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to the principles of justice cannot be overemphasized… It is crucial that all perspectives are heard and all aspects of the situation are duly considered.”
The allegations by Akpoti-Uduaghan have sparked significant domestic and international reaction. Mrs. Ogbara highlighted the necessity of considering the Senate President’s official denial against the backdrop of the allegations. Furthermore, she recounted the Senate’s explanation regarding Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, which was said to stem from earlier misconduct, rather than specifically about the harassment claims against Akpabio.
The incident reflects growing concerns about accountability and women’s rights within Nigeria’s political system, suggesting a critical moment for legislative evaluation and integrity in governance.
The situation surrounding the allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio raises significant concerns about the integrity of Nigeria’s legislative process. Kafilat Ogbara’s call for a transparent investigation and fair treatment highlights the need to safeguard human rights in such cases. The ongoing discussions reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence and promoting justice, while also calling for the representation of women’s issues in legislative developments.
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