Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central in the Nigerian Senate, has taken her case to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Geneva, Switzerland, challenging her suspension and alleging harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The Allegations:
Akpoti-Uduaghan claims she was suspended for speaking out about alleged sexual harassment by Akpabio, a situation she believes reflects systemic gender-based discrimination. The senator first made the harassment allegation in a television interview on February 28, stating that Akpabio made unwanted advances toward her in 2023.
The Suspension:
Last week, the Senate barred Akpoti-Uduaghan from office, cutting off her allowances and security. On Wednesday, the Senate Ethics Committee dismissed her petition against Akpabio, citing procedural issues. However, her suspension was also linked to a previous dispute over changes to her Senate seating arrangement.
International Attention:
Akpoti-Uduaghan's case before the IPU is expected to draw international attention to the treatment of women in Nigerian politics and governance. By taking her case to the UN and the IPU, Senator Natasha seeks global support against what she describes as political oppression.
Key Points:
Suspension and Harassment Allegations: Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for speaking out about alleged sexual harassment by Akpabio.
International Attention: Her case before the IPU is expected to draw international attention to the treatment of women in Nigerian politics and governance.
Unfair Treatment: Akpoti-Uduaghan claims she was silenced and suspended after submitting a petition against Akpabio, despite expecting a fair investigation.
Global Support: By taking her case to the UN and the IPU, Senator Natasha seeks global support against what she describes as political oppression.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
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