As controversy engulfs the National Assembly over alleged misconduct and a breach of Senate protocols, President and Founder of Women Africa International Rev. Mrs. Ijeoma Emeribe, has criticized both Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio for turning what should have been a private matter into a national spectacle.
Rev. Emeribe lamented that the dispute, instead of being handled discreetly, has overshadowed pressing governance issues, particularly the urgent need for women’s greater inclusion in leadership. She warned that such distractions could discourage female aspirants from venturing into politics.
“The disagreement between Senator Natasha and Senator Akpabio should have been resolved with maturity and discretion. Our cultural values do not frown upon friendly gestures, especially among long-standing acquaintances. However, the way this matter has been sensationalized publicly only damages our institutions and shifts focus from the real issues facing Nigerians,” she stated.
Rev. Emeribe also addressed concerns about parliamentary decorum, stressing that adherence to institutional protocols is non-negotiable. She pointed out that Natasha’s refusal to stand when the Senate President entered the chamber was a violation of parliamentary norms. Regardless of any personal grievances, she insisted that respect for the institution must be maintained, especially by those breaking barriers for women in politics.
“When women step into leadership, they must be prepared to handle challenges with grace and professionalism. Upholding the dignity of governance should be paramount, rather than allowing personal disputes to take center stage,” she asserted.
Regarding allegations of sexual harassment, Rev. Emeribe emphasized that such claims must be taken seriously but should also follow due process. If there was a genuine case, she argued, it should have been addressed through legal channels or internal mediation rather than being thrust into the public domain.
“The manner in which this issue has been handled does a disservice to the cause of women in leadership. If harassment occurred, it should have been confronted in a structured, legal manner rather than turned into political theater,” she said.
She also warned against seeking international intervention in a matter that could be settled through Africa’s existing governance structures. According to her, prioritizing internal conflict resolution is essential for maintaining the credibility of national institutions.
Rev. Emeribe urged both male and female leaders to exercise professionalism in their interactions. While cultural norms may allow for friendly exchanges, she noted that in professional settings, leaders must be cautious to avoid misinterpretation.
“Men in power must be mindful of their interactions with female colleagues. Casual gestures, pet names, or informal exchanges can be misread. Likewise, women must navigate such situations with tact and professionalism while upholding their credibility,” she advised.
She concluded by encouraging female politicians to remain focused on their core responsibilities instead of engaging in avoidable controversies. “Women in leadership must rise above distractions and commit to the work of governance. True leadership is about service, and that must always remain the priority.”
As debates surrounding the incident continue, Rev. Emeribe’s position highlights the urgent need for restraint, professionalism, and prioritizing national interests over personal grievances.
