March 4, 2025

A coalition of women’s rights advocates under the banner of Voices for Inclusion and Equity for Women (VIEW) has raised serious concerns over persistent gender inequity and systemic disregard for women in the 10th Nigerian Senate. Their concerns were heightened by recent events involving Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

The coalition expressed deep alarm over Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations of sexual harassment against the Senate President, calling for an immediate and impartial investigation by the Senate’s Ethics Committee. They emphasized that such serious accusations must not be dismissed, as they reflect the ethical standards and character expected within Nigeria’s highest legislative body.

Key Demands by VIEW:

1. Senate President Must Step Aside for Investigation:
   Given the gravity of the allegations, the coalition insists that Senate President Akpabio should temporarily step aside to allow for a truly independent and transparent investigation. They argue that unchecked power should not be used to suppress, silence, or intimidate female senators, who already face systemic bias in the chamber.

2. Review of Senate Rules to Prevent Abuse of Power:
   VIEW calls for a comprehensive review of Senate rules, particularly those that grant excessive authority to the Senate President. The group condemns arbitrary decisions, such as the reallocation of seats without due process, which contribute to the marginalization of female senators. They stress that the Senate, as the guardian of democracy, must uphold fairness and equity in its internal regulations.

3. A Transparent Investigation into Sexual Harassment Allegations:
   The coalition demands a full and transparent investigation into the recurring allegations of sexual harassment against the Senate President. They note that similar accusations have surfaced in the past, underscoring a disturbing pattern that requires urgent scrutiny. They stress that the Senate must send a clear message that no one is above accountability.

4. Ensuring Due Process for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan:
   VIEW urges all senators, legislative aides, and staff—regardless of party affiliation—to stand for justice and equity by ensuring that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan receives a fair and impartial hearing. They also condemn dismissive remarks from some lawmakers and aides, stating that such comments reinforce the systemic barriers women face in political leadership.

5. Addressing the Underrepresentation of Women in the Senate:
   The coalition highlights the urgent need for reforms to address the underrepresentation of women in the 10th Senate. They emphasize that without structural changes, women will continue to be sidelined rather than recognized as equal contributors to national decision-making.

6. Rejecting Attempts to Silence Women:
   VIEW warns that any attempt to silence Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan or discredit her allegations is not just an attack on her but an attack on justice, fairness, and democratic principles. They argue that allowing intimidation to stand sets a dangerous precedent that undermines accountability in the Senate.

7. Demand for Immediate Action from the Senate:
   The coalition urges the Senate to take decisive action to restore public trust in the institution. They stress that this moment requires more than rhetoric—it demands concrete steps to uphold justice and gender equity.

A Call for Justice and Reform

VIEW reiterates its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy so that more women—daughters, sisters, and future leaders—can feel safe and empowered to participate in governance. They insist that the era of impunity must end and that now is the time for action.

Signed by:
Asma'u Joda
Saudatu Mahdi
Maryam Uwais
Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode
Fatima Akilu
Ier Jonathan-Ichaver
Amina Salihu
Mairo Mandara
Kadaria Ahmed

For: Voices for Inclusion and Equity for Women (VIEW)
March 3, 2025