Women’s Group Condemns Akpabio’s ‘Blatant Disregard’ for Women – Natasha

Citing Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s recent measures against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as a concerning instance of gender-based intimidation, VIEW has accused the president of stifling women’s views.

“Akpabio’s persistent disregard for female lawmakers” was denounced by VIEW, a coalition dedicated to creating fair and inclusive political environments for women.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was recently forced out of the Senate chambers while claiming her right to speak, and the organization voiced concern over the occurrence, claiming it was part of a bigger pattern of institutional oppression.

Prominent female leaders like Asma’u Joda, Maryam Uwais, Mairo Mandara, Fatima Akilu, Aisha Oyebode, Kadaria Ahmed, and Aisha Waziri Ibrahim are part of the coalition, which has stated that it is unacceptable for female politicians to continue to be harassed.

“This is not an isolated incident; it comes after the Senate President has shown flagrant disrespect for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and other female leaders in the past. The group said, “This trend needs to be questioned and challenged.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s bold statement, “I am not afraid of you,” is a rallying cry for all women in leadership who will not be silenced, according to VIEW.

They denounced the poisonous political atmosphere that compels female politicians to go beyond their legislative responsibilities in order to be heard.

“What prevents the Senate President from interacting with Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan without using contempt and condescension? The statement went on to say that a head of a democratic institution must maintain equality, justice, and respect for all parliamentarians, regardless of gender.

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In order to eradicate gender-based intimidation in the Senate, VIEW demanded that the Nigerian legislative establish a climate in which women’s opinions are recognized, valued, and promoted in the political process.

“We remain steadfast in our support of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and all other Nigerian women who reject quiet. A democracy in crisis is one in which women’s voices are suppressed.

“Until true inclusivity is achieved, we will keep demanding justice, equity, and accountability,” the coalition said.