First Lady speaks on Akpabio sexual harassment allegation

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has weighed in on the sexual harassment allegations leveled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, stating that the Senate is handling the matter appropriately.

The allegations stemmed from a heated exchange between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan on February 20, reportedly over seating arrangements in the Senate chamber.

Following the incident, Akpoti-Uduaghan alleged that her troubles in the Senate began after she rejected advances from Akpabio.

Speaking to journalists in the lead-up to International Women’s Day, the First Lady emphasized that the Senate should be a space of dignity and respect, not discord.

“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,” she said.

“We shouldn’t be hearing things like that. 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. Women, raise yourself, don’t be in a position that men will be talking to you anyhow. You can always shut them down before they start.”

The First Lady emphasized the strides made by women through the years, acknowledging figures like Zuriel Oduwole, who advocates for peace, as symbols of progress. She also encouraged young Nigerians, especially women, to keep striving for excellence and to take pride in their capabilities.