Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has taken further steps to challenge her suspension from the Nigerian Senate by bringing her case before the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).
The lawmaker from Kogi Central, who was recently suspended, argues that the decision was unjust and highlights the broader struggles women face in Nigerian politics.
The Senate suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan on March 6, 2025, following her petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The petition allegedly detailed claims of sexual harassment, but instead of addressing her concerns, the Senate responded by suspending her for six months.
Describing the suspension as unlawful, Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized that it not only silences her but also undermines democratic representation. She lamented the restrictive conditions imposed on her, including the loss of security, official vehicles, and salary. Furthermore, she was prohibited from identifying herself as a senator both in Nigeria and internationally during the suspension period.
While speaking at the IPU, Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed her disappointment over the situation. She explained that her intention in submitting the petition was to ensure a fair and transparent investigation, expecting that Akpabio would step aside from the process. However, rather than allowing due process, she was penalized.
“This is bigger than me,” she stated. “It reflects the systemic exclusion of women from political leadership in Nigeria. With only 3.6% of political positions held by women and just four female senators among 109 men, the situation is dire. Now, with my suspension, only three women remain in the Senate.”
She further highlighted how her case demonstrates the broader issue of political victimization and suppression of voices advocating for gender equality, security, and transparency in governance.
Akpoti-Uduaghan urged international bodies and women’s rights advocates to pay attention to the struggles women in Nigeria face, particularly in politics. She stressed that if a female senator could be treated this way publicly, many other women in workplaces and institutions likely face even greater challenges in silence.
