Women Affairs Minister Seeks Resolution in Senate Dispute
The Federal Government has begun discussions with the National Assembly to resolve the controversy surrounding the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District.
Speaking at the Meet-the-Press Programme in the Presidential Villa, Abuja, the Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs. Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, confirmed that efforts are underway to mediate and ensure fairness.
“We’re engaging all stakeholders to ensure that they temper justice with mercy,” she said.
Her statement came just a day after the 10th Senate suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months following her petition alleging sexual harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The Controversy Behind Natasha’s Suspension
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan first raised concerns on February 28, but her petition was dismissed on procedural grounds.
The Senate Ethics Committee later recommended her suspension, arguing that she had brought the upper chamber into disrepute.
This decision sparked widespread reactions, with some politicians and activists calling for a review of the case.
Calls for Dialogue and Reconciliation
Minister Suleiman-Ibrahim emphasized the need to maintain female representation in the Senate, noting that the previous assembly had nine female senators, a number that should not decline.
“We don’t want to lose any more women in the Senate. We will be brokering peace and engaging stakeholders to find a resolution,” she assured.
She also highlighted Senate President Akpabio’s willingness to engage in discussions, saying that during the International Women’s Day event at the National Assembly, he expressed openness to dialogue.
“The Senate President said, ‘We’re open to broker peace.’ So we’ll serve as intermediaries between both parties to ensure that peace prevails.”
What’s Next?
With ongoing discussions, stakeholders are hopeful that a mutual resolution will be reached.
The case has also sparked broader conversations about women’s representation, political fairness, and justice in Nigeria’s legislative process.
Do you think the Senate will reconsider Natasha’s suspension? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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