By NIGPOST
Former Presidential Adviser and ex-Senator Florence Ita-Giwa has dismissed Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims of sexual harassment in the Senate, stating that women who attain such positions should not consider themselves vulnerable to such acts.
Her reaction follows Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recent allegation that Senate President Godswill Akpabio frustrated her attempts to raise motions about Ajaokuta Steel Company because she refused his advances.
Ita-Giwa: “Sexual Harassment Doesn’t Exist at Senate Level”
Speaking on Arise TV on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, Ita-Giwa argued that sexual harassment claims in the Senate indicate weakness rather than victimization.
“By the time you contest elections and get to the Senate, you have passed that stage of being sexually harassed. You are there to serve, and you are equal to everyone else,” she said.
While she did not outright accuse Akpoti-Uduaghan of lying, she maintained that female senators should see themselves as equals to their male counterparts.
“At that stage in politics, if you come out and say someone is sexually harassing you, it is a sign of weakness,” Ita-Giwa added.
“Women Should Not Make Such Accusations,” She Insists
When asked whether female lawmakers should remain silent about harassment, Ita-Giwa doubled down on her stance, insisting that making such accusations at the Senate level was inappropriate.
“I do not support Senator Akpoti on this matter. It is the worst sign of weakness for a woman to publicly accuse a man of making advances at her at this level,” she said.
She emphasized that winning a senatorial seat is no small feat, and women in such positions should assert themselves rather than claim to be victims.
Public Reactions and Senate’s Position
While Ita-Giwa’s comments have sparked discussions, the Senate has yet to issue an official statement regarding Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations.
Meanwhile, Akpabio has also not publicly responded to the claims.
Stay tuned to NIGPOST for updates on this developing story.
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