First Lady Oluremi Tinubu said the senate is taking the necessary steps to address the sexual harassment allegations by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, lawmaker representing Kogi central, against Senate president Godswill Akpabio.
On February 20, Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan engaged in a heated debate on the floor of the upper legislative chamber over a change in seating arrangements.
Akpoti-Uduaghan later alleged that her trouble in the senate began after she rejected sexual advances from Akpabio.
She tendered a sexual harassment petition against Akpabio on the floor of the upper legislative chamber on Wednesday.
But the senate committee on ethics and privileges rejected the petition, citing breaches of due process and legal limitations.
Speaking to journalists ahead of International Women’s Day, the first lady said the senate chamber should be a place of honour, not controversy.
She also urged Nigerian women to assert themselves in leadership and not be sidelined.
“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.”
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.
The first lady added that Nigerian youths are equipped with what it takes to excel, urging women to continue lifting their heads high and doing their best.
