First Lady Breaks Silence on Natasha, Akpabio Feud
The tension between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the now-suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has dominated headlines in recent days, sparking debates about leadership, respect, and the role of women in Nigerian politics. This public dispute, which includes serious allegations of sexual harassment and abuse of power, has led to widespread discussion about the integrity of the Nigerian Senate and its leadership. Amid this storm, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has broken her silence, offering her perspective on the situation and emphasizing the importance of respect and maturity within the Senate.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s remarks, made during an interaction with journalists at the State House in Abuja on March 6, have generated significant attention. The First Lady, who served in the Nigerian Senate for 12 years, is no stranger to the challenges and dynamics of legislative processes. She is well-positioned to comment on the inner workings of the Senate and the treatment of female lawmakers within it. This article delves deeper into the issues surrounding the Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio feud, exploring the First Lady’s response, the broader implications of her remarks, and the ongoing struggle for women’s empowerment in Nigerian politics.
The altercation between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been a significant point of contention in Nigerian politics. The initial reports emerged with allegations from Akpoti-Uduaghan, who accused Akpabio of sexual harassment and abuse of power. These claims have raised serious concerns about the behavior and conduct of political leaders, particularly those in positions of power, like Akpabio.
The accusations were not made lightly, as they highlight the deeper issues of gender inequality, harassment, and abuse of power within Nigerian politics. The political arena, often seen as a male-dominated space, has historically placed women in challenging and sometimes vulnerable positions. For female politicians like Akpoti-Uduaghan, the experience of being in the political spotlight can be fraught with both opportunities and challenges, making it even more critical for institutions to support and protect women in leadership roles.
In response to these allegations, Senator Tinubu’s comments are pivotal. While she did not delve into the specifics of the allegations, she emphasized the need for respect and maturity within the legislative process. She pointed out that the Senate is a mature institution that should be treated with the utmost respect and dignity, reinforcing the importance of maintaining decorum in the face of controversy.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s background as a former member of the Senate for 12 years gives her a unique insight into the workings of the Nigerian Senate. She has experienced firsthand the pressures and challenges of being a female politician in a predominantly male environment. Her comments underscore the importance of maturity and respect within the Senate, which she believes is a place of honor and significance.
The First Lady dismissed concerns that the Senate was mishandling the situation, asserting that the legislative chamber is addressing the matter appropriately. “The Senate is doing what is needful,” she said, emphasizing that it is an internal matter that is being dealt with by the institution itself. This statement reflects her confidence in the Senate’s ability to manage its affairs and resolve conflicts without external interference.
Moreover, Senator Tinubu expressed that, despite the ongoing controversy, it is important to remember the significance of the Senate as an institution. She reminded the public that the Senate is a respected and mature body, and that it is a privilege to serve there. By framing the Senate as a place of honor, she reinforced the idea that politicians, particularly those in leadership positions, must conduct themselves with dignity and professionalism.
One of the most striking aspects of Senator Tinubu’s remarks was her call for Nigerian women to assert themselves in leadership roles. As the First Lady, Tinubu has long been an advocate for women’s rights and gender equality, and she used her platform to encourage women to take on more leadership positions in the country. This message was particularly resonant as the world prepares to celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8th.
In her comments, Tinubu urged women to not let themselves be diminished or disrespected by their male counterparts. She emphasized that women should stand firm in their convictions and not allow others to treat them “anyhow.” This was a direct call to action for Nigerian women, reminding them of their worth and the importance of self-respect.
“I was there for 12 years, even in my younger days, and I’m still trying to look young, but people compliment you all the time, only that, women raise yourself, don’t be in a position that men will be talking to you anyhow,” Tinubu said, reflecting on her own experience in the Senate. This personal reflection served as both a piece of advice and a reminder that women must navigate the political landscape with strength, dignity, and a sense of self-worth.
Tinubu’s remarks were made just ahead of International Women’s Day, a global event that celebrates the achievements of women and advocates for gender equality. In her statement, Tinubu took the opportunity to reflect on the progress that women have made, both in Nigeria and worldwide. She acknowledged the role that women have played throughout history, from the matriarchs of old to contemporary figures like Zuriel Oduwole, who has become an international advocate for peace and education.
By linking the controversy in the Senate to the broader theme of women’s empowerment, Tinubu placed the discussion of gender issues within a larger context. She recognized that while there is still much work to be done, women around the world have made significant strides in overcoming barriers and achieving greatness. Whether it is in politics, business, or social activism, women are increasingly breaking down the walls that have historically confined them.
The First Lady’s comments about Nigerian women were particularly significant because they came at a time when the nation is still grappling with issues of gender inequality and the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions. Despite these challenges, women like Senator Tinubu and other female politicians in Nigeria continue to push for progress and advocate for the rights of women to have a seat at the table.
Senator Tinubu’s comments also serve to highlight the broader issue of women’s representation in Nigerian politics. While women have made notable gains in various sectors, their representation in the political sphere remains disproportionately low. In a country where women make up nearly half of the population, their voices are often underrepresented in the halls of power.
The case of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is a stark reminder of the challenges that female lawmakers face in Nigeria. The accusations against Akpabio and the subsequent suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan have sparked a conversation about the power dynamics in the Nigerian Senate and the treatment of female lawmakers. Tinubu’s call for respect and maturity in the Senate is, in part, a call for a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in politics.
It is crucial for Nigerian women to have more representation in decision-making processes, and for institutions like the Senate to create spaces where women can thrive without fear of harassment or discrimination. Senator Tinubu’s call for women to assert themselves in leadership roles is a powerful reminder that women’s participation in politics is not just a matter of equality but also of national development.
The feud between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio has brought to light critical issues of power, respect, and gender in Nigerian politics. In her response, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has emphasized the importance of treating the Senate with respect, highlighting the institution’s maturity and integrity. At the same time, she has called on Nigerian women to assert themselves in leadership, standing firm against any form of mistreatment or disrespect.
As Nigeria moves forward, it is clear that the role of women in politics must continue to evolve. With figures like Senator Tinubu leading the charge, there is hope that women will increasingly find their voices in the political arena, shaping the future of the nation in ways that reflect their strengths, vision, and contributions. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it is important to recognize the progress that has been made, while also acknowledging the work that remains to be done to ensure that women’s rights are protected and their leadership roles are recognized and respected.
The future of Nigerian politics is one where the contributions of women must be valued, where respect and dignity are upheld, and where the barriers that limit women’s full participation are dismantled. With the continued efforts of leaders like Senator Oluremi Tinubu, there is hope that these ideals will one day be fully realized.
EXCERPT
First Lady breaks silence on Natasha, Akpabio feud
First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has broken silence over the recent altercation between the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and the now-suspended lawmaker representing Kogi central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghen.
According to Tinubu, the Legislative Chamber is handling matters appropriately.
She explained that the Senate is a matured Chamber which must be treated with respect.
The First Lady’s remarks were contained in a statement by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, on Thursday, Busola Kukoyi, March 6.
The statement partly reads: “First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, says the Nigerian Senate, remains a ‘matured’ institution that must be treated with respect.
“She made the remarks while speaking with journalists at the State House Abuja.The remarks come amid allegations of sexual harassment and abuse of power against the president of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
“Speaking ahead of the International Women’s Day, she dismissed concerns over the Senate’s handling of issues, insisting lawmakers are “doing what is needful.”
“Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who served in the Senate for 12 years, said the chamber should be a place of honour, not controversy.
“She also urged Nigerian women to assert themselves in leadership.
” I know with what is going on in the Senate, you may say, why am I not taking a position? I believe that Senate is doing what is needful, because that’s what it is. Is an inside place and it’s a matured chamber. It’s a matured chamber, and it should be treated with respect. It’s an honour for you to be in that place alone’.
“ ‘I was there for 12 years, even in my younger days, and I’m still trying to look young, but people compliment you all the time, only that, women raise yourself, don’t be in a position that men will be talking to you anyhow”.
“Ahead of the International Women’s Day on March 8th, the First Lady celebrated the achievements of women all over the world but in Nigeria in particular.She acknowledged the significant progress women have made over the decades, from the matriarchs of old to contemporary figures like Zuriel Oduwole, who champions peace.
