Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has accused fellow senator Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, sparking a significant political controversy in Nigeria. After her allegations were dismissed and she was suspended from the senate, protests erupted nationally under the banner “We are all Natasha,” reflecting broader issues of women’s rights in the country. Despite support from some quarters, entrenched patriarchal structures and a culture of impunity remain prevalent.
In July, Nigeria’s third highest government official, Godswill Akpabio, publicly apologized for previously reprimanding senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. This followed backlash from citizens after he dismissed her comments, saying, “We are not in a nightclub.” A recent interview revealed Akpoti-Uduaghan accused him of sexual harassment, alleging he suggested she advance a motion in exchange for personal favors.
Akpoti-Uduaghan claimed Akpabio told her he would create opportunities for them to spend time together, while he denied all allegations. When she submitted a petition regarding her claims to the senate, it was dismissed on procedural grounds, and she received a six-month suspension for “unruly and disruptive” behavior.
This controversy has sparked national discussions on women’s rights in Nigeria, highlighting the political environment where only four women serve in the entire senate and the representation of women has decreased over the years. Akpoti-Uduaghan confronted her suspension as a suppression of her voice, reiterating her commitment to “speaking my truth.”
Women’s rights organizations condemned her suspension, leading to protests nationwide under the banner “We are all Natasha.” Civil society leaders criticized the disciplinary process as inadequate. Akpabio’s aides claimed that Akpoti-Uduaghan did not follow proper guidelines for her petition but stated that a refiled petition was being investigated.
In her political journey, Akpoti-Uduaghan faced various forms of harassment, both during her previous election attempts and in her recent campaign. Despite intimidation tactics against her, which she likened to a war zone, she was eventually elected as one of Nigeria’s youngest senators.
Akpabio had previously faced his own sexual harassment allegations but has consistently denied any wrongdoing. Female senators have largely dismissed Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims, with male colleagues suggesting that the allegations stemmed from personal grievances. The response reflects ongoing patriarchal structures and a lack of solidarity among some female lawmakers.
The discourse has also led to baseless rumors targeting Akpoti-Uduaghan on social media, contributing to her public harassment. Despite receiving support from some opposition senators and women across the nation, the prevailing sentiment is that Nigeria has not fully embraced a MeToo movement. Analysts note that a culture of impunity hinders justice, particularly for those lacking political connections.
The allegations against Godswill Akpabio made by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan have ignited significant discussion on women’s rights and harassment in Nigeria. The political repercussions of her claims, including her suspension and public backlash, reflect deep-seated issues within the political framework. The situation illustrates the continued struggles faced by women in positions of power and highlights the barriers to justice and equity they encounter. Support for Akpoti-Uduaghan among women persists, but the broader societal changes needed for true progress appear distant.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
