The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has condemned the alleged mistreatment of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, calling for an independent investigation into the matter. The forum, which represents the interests of northern Nigeria’s influential elders, has raised concerns over what it sees as an abuse of power and a breach of the values of fairness and justice within the Senate.
In a statement issued by the NEF, spokesperson Professor Abubakar Jika Jiddere expressed shock and disappointment over the reported actions of Akpabio. The forum emphasized the need for an unbiased and transparent investigation to examine the allegations of intimidation and mistreatment. In addition to demanding an independent probe, the NEF has called for Akpabio’s immediate resignation to allow for an investigation free from any form of interference.
The controversy centers on a public conflict between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents the Kogi Central Senatorial District. Reports suggest that Akpabio publicly humiliated and intimidated the female senator, sparking widespread condemnation from various quarters.
Professor Jiddere expressed the forum’s outrage over the incident, particularly given the global push for gender sensitivity, inclusivity, and the protection of women’s rights in the workplace. “It is deeply concerning that, at a time when there is a global push for gender sensitivity, inclusiveness, and respect for fundamental human rights, especially the dignity of women in high-level public service, a female senator is being subjected to public intimidation and mistreatment,” he said.
The NEF pointed out that such actions are unacceptable, especially within the Senate, which is expected to be the highest law-making institution in the country. The forum stressed that Akpabio’s actions could potentially tarnish the reputation of the Nigerian Senate and undermine its integrity. According to the statement, “The treatment of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Senate President is completely unacceptable.”
The NEF also condemned the use of power in what it described as an attempt to suppress a lawmaker who, according to reports, was simply fulfilling her duty as an elected representative. “These actions undermine the integrity of the Senate and set a dangerous precedent,” the statement read.
The call for Akpabio’s resignation is a significant development in Nigerian politics. As the head of the Senate, Akpabio holds considerable power, and his actions toward a female colleague have raised questions about the dynamics of gender and power within the highest legislative body in the country. The NEF’s demand for his resignation is intended to ensure that the investigation is carried out impartially and without bias, in order to preserve the sanctity of the Senate.
“The Senate must uphold the values of fairness, justice, and respect. Any deviation from these principles risks damaging Nigeria’s reputation in the international community,” the forum warned.
The conflict between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan is not the first time the Nigerian Senate has been embroiled in controversy. Over the years, there have been several instances of lawmakers clashing publicly, often over issues of power, authority, and the treatment of women in politics. However, the latest incident stands out due to the involvement of a prominent female senator and the alleged abuse of power by the Senate President.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who has been a vocal advocate for the rights of her constituents, particularly women, has yet to comment publicly on the incident. However, her supporters have rallied behind her, condemning Akpabio’s alleged actions and calling for justice.
The Northern Elders Forum’s call for an independent investigation is not only a demand for accountability but also a plea for a Senate that upholds its reputation as a body that represents fairness, justice, and integrity. In a country where political power dynamics are often marked by a lack of transparency and accountability, the NEF’s call for action highlights the need for institutions to remain true to their values and protect the rights of all citizens, especially women.
Gender discrimination in Nigerian politics is a persistent issue, with women often facing barriers to equal participation and representation. The mistreatment of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has brought this issue to the forefront once again, prompting renewed calls for gender equity in Nigerian politics. The NEF’s statement reflects the growing concern among many Nigerians that women must be treated with dignity and respect in all spheres of public life.
The NEF also took aim at the Senate’s leadership, accusing Akpabio of abusing his position as Senate President. The forum stated that Akpabio’s actions were not only a personal attack on Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan but also an affront to the institution of the Senate itself. By resorting to intimidation and mistreatment, Akpabio, according to the NEF, has set a dangerous precedent for future interactions between lawmakers.
