In a groundbreaking move that resonates across the political landscape, over 360 women’s rights advocates, united under the banner of Womanifesto, have called for a public hearing to address the escalating tensions within Nigeria’s National Assembly. At the heart of their demand is a strong call for the resignation of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, following the recent sexual harassment allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. This call for transparency comes in the wake of a similar allegation that emerged in 2020, when Joy Nuneh, the then-Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, shedding light on an ongoing pattern of misconduct that the advocates say must not be ignored.
Allegations Resurface, Demanding Accountability
The latest allegations, leveled by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, have reignited national discourse on the issue of sexual harassment in Nigerian politics, particularly among those in positions of power. According to Akpoti-Uduaghan, Akpabio made inappropriate advances towards her, igniting a firestorm of outrage among Nigerian citizens, particularly women who have long called for stronger mechanisms to address sexual harassment in the public and political spheres. This isn’t the first time Akpabio has been accused of such behavior. In 2020, Joy Nuneh, the then NDDC MD, publicly accused the Senate President of sexual harassment, an allegation that was widely discussed but, according to many critics, was never fully addressed.
Now, with the new allegations from Akpoti-Uduaghan, the demands for Akpabio’s resignation have reached a fever pitch. Advocacy groups, including Womanifesto, argue that these repeated accusations demonstrate a pattern of inappropriate behavior that should not be tolerated at the highest levels of Nigerian governance. The coalition believes Akpabio’s resignation is necessary to restore integrity to the National Assembly and ensure that the voices of women, particularly those in positions of power, are protected.
The Call for a Public Hearing
In addition to the call for Akpabio’s resignation, Womanifesto is demanding a public hearing to investigate not only the current tensions within the National Assembly but also the broader implications of Akpabio’s alleged actions. The women’s rights advocates are insisting on full transparency and accountability from the legislative body, urging that the public be allowed to witness the proceedings and weigh in on the political climate that could potentially harm the progress of women’s rights and governance in Nigeria.
A public hearing, they argue, is essential to uncover the truth behind the allegations and provide clarity on how such accusations are being handled within the corridors of power. According to the coalition, if these allegations are true, they represent not just personal misconduct but a broader issue of gender inequality and harassment within Nigerian politics. By holding a public hearing, the National Assembly could send a clear message that sexual harassment will not be tolerated and that those in power are not above the law.
Womanifesto’s Role in the Fight for Justice
Womanifesto has long been at the forefront of advocating for gender equality and women’s rights in Nigeria. Over the years, the group has mobilized thousands to protest against various forms of gender-based violence and systemic discrimination that women face. From policy advocacy to grassroots mobilization, Womanifesto has been a key player in pushing for reforms to ensure women’s voices are heard in the political and social spheres.
In light of the recent events, Womanifesto has rallied its members, comprising over 360 women’s rights activists, to demand a swift and fair investigation into Akpabio’s actions. The group is calling for an independent review of the allegations and a public hearing to ensure that the National Assembly operates with the utmost integrity and respect for the dignity of all citizens, especially women.
A Grave Threat to Women’s Rights Legislation
Beyond the individual allegations against Akpabio, the broader concern raised by the coalition is the potential impact of the ongoing political instability on women’s rights legislation in Nigeria. With the National Assembly embroiled in internal conflicts and leadership struggles, advocates fear that critical bills addressing gender-based violence, women’s economic empowerment, and gender equality could be delayed or ignored.
One such piece of legislation that could be impacted is the long-awaited Gender and Equal Opportunities Bill, which aims to protect women from violence, ensure equal access to opportunities, and address systemic gender discrimination. The ongoing political chaos could create an environment in which such crucial legislation takes a backseat to personal and political disputes, a scenario that could leave women in Nigeria more vulnerable than ever.
The Road to Accountability
The call for Akpabio’s resignation is not just about one man’s alleged actions, but rather a larger call for justice, accountability, and the prioritization of women’s rights within the legislative process. Advocates believe that if the National Assembly is truly committed to upholding the principles of democracy and equality, it must address these allegations head-on and take decisive action to prevent further harm.
A public hearing, they argue, will serve as a necessary platform to expose the truth and hold those in power accountable for their actions. It will also allow for a broader discussion on the systemic issues that continue to impede the progress of women in Nigeria, and offer solutions for creating a safer and more inclusive political environment for future generations.
Conclusion: A Moment of Truth for Nigeria
As the pressure mounts on Senate President Godswill Akpabio to resign and for the National Assembly to address its internal conflicts, the call from over 360 women’s rights advocates under the Womanifesto banner is a defining moment in Nigeria’s political history. The demand for a public hearing is not just about investigating allegations of sexual harassment, but about creating a culture of transparency and accountability in Nigerian politics. It is a call for the restoration of integrity, where women’s voices are not only heard but respected, and where justice is delivered without bias or fear.
This moment is a powerful reminder that Nigeria must stand firm against sexual harassment and discrimination at all levels, particularly in the corridors of power. The future of women’s rights and equality in Nigeria depends on the actions taken today, and the National Assembly must prove that it is ready to lead with integrity and fairness for all its citizens.
