Former Minister of Education, Obiageli Ezekwesili, has condemned the Nigerian Senate for refusing to conduct an independent investigation into sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Ezekwesili accused the Senate of undermining democracy by dismissing the allegations without due process.
Background of the Allegations
The controversy began when Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Senate President Akpabio of sexual harassment. The allegations surfaced after a heated dispute over seating arrangements during a Senate session. Akpoti-Uduaghan alleged that her mistreatment stemmed from rejecting Akpabio’s advances and formally submitted a petition detailing her claims.
However, rather than investigating the allegations, the Senate’s Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions dismissed the petition, arguing that it did not follow proper procedures. In a move that sparked public outrage, the Senate suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months, effectively barring her from her office and cutting off her legislative allowances.
Ezekwesili’s Reaction
Reacting to the development via a post on X (formerly Twitter), Ezekwesili criticized the Senate’s handling of the case, calling it a “shameful” attempt to silence a female lawmaker. She accused the Senate of refusing an opportunity to conduct an independent and transparent investigation.
“No one wants another kangaroo process of injustice like they did to Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan,” Ezekwesili wrote. “Rather than reverse that illegality and focus on her petition for sexual harassment, the Senate and Senate President have instead embarked on a smear campaign against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.”
Ezekwesili further alleged that the Senate is attempting to organize a “sham recall” by bribing Akpoti-Uduaghan’s constituents—an effort she claimed has largely failed.
Calls for Transparency
Ezekwesili urged Nigerian citizens to stand against what she described as a culture of impunity within the legislature. She argued that the Senate’s actions undermine public trust in democratic institutions and discourage women from participating in politics.
“They behave with impunity because they have taken a chokehold on our democracy. It is time for all reasonable citizens to stand up to them before they totally destroy whatever is left of Nigeria,” she said.
Public Backlash and Gender Concerns
The Senate’s treatment of Akpoti-Uduaghan has triggered widespread backlash from civil society groups and women’s rights advocates. Under the banner “We Are All Natasha,” protests have emerged across Nigeria, highlighting concerns about gender-based harassment and the exclusion of women from political power.
Critics argue that the Senate’s decision reflects a broader pattern of silencing women in Nigerian politics. Many have called for an independent inquiry to ensure transparency and hold those responsible accountable.
Conclusion
The dismissal of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s harassment claims and her subsequent suspension raise serious questions about fairness and accountability in Nigeria’s legislative processes. Ezekwesili’ criticism of the process highlights the decaying political system in Nigeria and the public call for accountability and transparent investigation. As public pressure mounts, observers argue that the handling of this case will serve as a crucial test for the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions and the nation’s commitment to gender equity.
For now, Ezekwesili and other advocates continue to call for a transparent investigation, emphasizing that justice must be done to restore public confidence in the system.
