A group of protesters under the banner of Women for Change Vanguard took their grievances to the United Nations office in Abuja on Friday, condemning Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Chanting slogans and holding banners with messages like “We believe in actual victims of sexual harassment, not people who weaponize it” and “The burden of proof lies with the accuser,” the protesters challenged Akpoti-Uduaghan to provide concrete evidence to support her claims.
Protest Follows Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension and UN Address
The protest comes just a day after Akpoti-Uduaghan filed a contempt charge against Akpabio and others over her six-month suspension from the Senate without pay. She had earlier taken her case to the United Nations’ International Parliamentary Union, alleging political victimization.
Her suspension on March 6 followed a dispute over a new Senate seating arrangement, which she claimed was an attempt to undermine her. The controversy escalated further when she accused Akpabio of retaliating against her for rejecting his alleged sexual advances.
Protesters Demand Accountability and Evidence
Addressing UN representatives in Abuja, Women for Change Vanguard leader Irene Umoh criticized Akpoti-Uduaghan’s approach, arguing that false accusations undermine genuine victims of sexual violence.
“This is not the first time Senator Natasha has made serious allegations against a prominent figure. Such actions risk becoming a weapon wielded against men in power, undermining the credibility of real victims,” Umoh stated.
She urged the UN to ask Akpoti-Uduaghan for proof, adding, “If credible evidence is presented, we will stand firm in ensuring justice is served. However, unverified claims must not be used to damage reputations.”
The protesters also warned against the misuse of sexual harassment allegations, arguing that unchecked accusations could lead to a culture where innocent men are unfairly targeted.
“Our peaceful protest today is about justice and accountability. Senator Akpabio must have the opportunity to clear his name, and Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan must substantiate her claims,” Umoh added.
UN Promises to Address Concerns
Receiving the group’s petition, UN Senior Human Rights Advisor Adwoa Kufuor assured the protesters that their concerns would be directed to the appropriate channels within the organization.
