By Senator Babafemi Ojudu
The Nigerian Senate’s decision to suspend Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for raising allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio is not just troubling—it is a blatant miscarriage of justice. Regardless of the veracity of her claims, fundamental fairness dictates that Akpabio should not have presided over a matter in which he was personally implicated. His failure to recuse himself undermines the integrity of the Senate and reinforces the perception that the institution remains hostile to women who dare to challenge the status quo.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is not one to be easily silenced. Having interacted with her in an official capacity during my time in the presidency, I can attest to her strength, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to her people. She has faced relentless political persecution in Kogi State but has remained resolute, earning deep grassroots support through her advocacy and service.
What is even more disgraceful than her suspension is the shameless orchestration of hired protests in Abuja and Akwa Ibom, designed to discredit her. These so-called demonstrations are nothing more than a poorly staged charade—an insult to the intelligence of Nigerians. This is a familiar playbook: deploy paid agitators, manufacture outrage, and attempt to bury the truth under a mountain of deception. But such desperate tactics only reveal that someone has something to hide.
History has shown that truth and justice ultimately prevail. This suspension is a temporary setback, but it will not define Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. If anything, it will strengthen her resolve and cement her place as a formidable leader and advocate for justice. Meanwhile, those behind this disgraceful smear campaign will find their names etched in the annals of infamy—a reminder of those who stood against integrity and fairness.
Nigeria deserves a Senate where justice is not only done but seen to be done. The chamber must correct this injustice and ensure that no lawmaker—especially a woman—is victimized for speaking the truth.
