A sweeping coalition of Nigerian women’s rights organisations has taken its fight for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to the United Nations, accusing the Nigerian Senate of retaliating against her after she accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment.
In a complaint filed Monday with UN Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women and Girls, Reem Alsalem, the Womanifesto network—representing more than 350 advocacy groups—warned that the Senate’s actions violate Nigeria’s obligations under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and send a chilling message to women in politics.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, alleged on February 20 that Akpabio harassed her—an allegation he vehemently denies.
Days later, the Senate’s Ethics and Privileges Committee recommended a six-month suspension on procedural grounds.
The punishment stripped her of pay, security, and access to the chamber, sparking outrage among civil society groups who viewed it as retaliation.
On July 4, the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled the suspension unconstitutional and “overreaching,” effectively clearing the way for her return. Yet the Senate refused to reinstate her, claiming the judgment lacked a binding order or remains “under litigation.”
“This isn’t just about one senator—it’s about whether Nigeria protects women who report harassment,” said Dr. Abiola-Akiyode-Afolabi, Convener of Womanifesto and Director of the Women Advocate Research and Documentation Centre. “Silencing Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan undermines democracy itself.”
The coalition urged the UN to demand Akpoti-Uduaghan’s immediate reinstatement and protection from reprisals, seek details on harassment complaint mechanisms within the National Assembly, call for an independent investigation into her allegation and recommend structural reforms to prevent future retaliation against whistleblowers.
Among the signatories are Amnesty International Nigeria, FIDA Nigeria, Baobab for Women’s Human Rights, Women in Management Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ), and Stand to End Rape (STER). Activists warn that ignoring the High Court ruling could deter women from seeking or holding political office.
“This case demonstrates that unchecked harassment in politics threatens women’s participation in governance and erodes public trust,” the petition states.
The UN Special Rapporteur’s office has not yet responded, but observers say the international spotlight could intensify pressure on Nigerian authorities. The impasse now stands as a high-stakes test of Nigeria’s commitment to gender equality and rule of law.