A civic organization, the Concerned Women Group (CWG), has condemned the Nigerian Senate’s decision to summon Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan before a disciplinary panel, warning that any attempt to suspend her will spark a nationwide protest.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the group’s convener, Sabina Idowu-Osehobo, described the move as an attempt to silence women in leadership, vowing that Nigerian women will not remain silent in the face of political victimization.
Call for Intervention
The group has urged President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu to intervene immediately, warning that the Senate should focus on pressing national issues instead of suppressing dissenting voices.
“This latest development, spearheaded by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, reinforces growing concerns that there is a deliberate effort to silence women in Nigeria’s political landscape.”
They noted that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, one of only three female senators in the 10th National Assembly, is being targeted for her outspoken advocacy and fearless representation of her constituents.
Allegations of Political Intimidation
The CWG alleged that summoning Akpoti-Uduaghan is part of a broader strategy to intimidate and sideline women in politics, adding that democracy thrives on the inclusion of diverse perspectives.
“It is unacceptable that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who speaks boldly for Nigerians, is being punished for performing her constitutional duties. Such actions undermine the democratic principles on which our nation was built.”
Threat of Mass Protest
The group warned that any move to suspend Akpoti-Uduaghan would trigger strong resistance from Nigerian women, who are prepared to mobilize nationwide in defense of female leadership.
“We stand united in our resolve to defend the rights of all women in leadership and will not hesitate to mobilize for a nationwide protest.”
The CWG reaffirmed its support for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, demanding that her rights, privileges, and voice be respected in the Senate.
