*Forms Committee To Monitor Senate’s Handling Of Sexual Harassment Petition
The Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum (NBAWF) expresses deep concern over the allegations of inappropriate behavior involving two distinguished Senators of the Federal Republic of Nigeria: the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, in a statement by Huwaila Muhammad Ibrahim, Chairperson, NBAWF.
As the umbrella body representing all female legal practitioners in Nigeria, NBAWF stands firm in its belief that every Nigerian citizen has the right to personal dignity, self-respect, and freedom from harassment, as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
While we acknowledge that an allegation remains an allegation until its veracity is established through due process, we believe it is imperative that such serious claims be thoroughly investigated. We are aware that, for technical and procedural reasons, the petition initially submitted by Senator Akpoto-Uduaghan has not been considered by the Senate. A fresh petition has since been presented, which we hope will be addressed promptly.
We urge the relevant authorities to ensure that the issues raised in Senator Akpoto-Uduaghan’s petitions receive a fair and complete investigation. Allegations of sexual harassment should never be dismissed without proper scrutiny. Failure to investigate such matters could set a dangerous precedent, potentially affecting how similar issues are treated in the future.
It is in the best interest of both Senator Akpabio and Senator Akpoto-Uduaghan for this matter to be fully investigated and resolved, as this will allow Senator Akpabio the opportunity to clear his name and reputation, and provide Senator Akpoto-Uduaghan the opportunity to prove her claims. Transparency in addressing this matter is crucial for the integrity of the Senate and the public’s trust in the institution.
NBAWF also calls for the Senate to demonstrate its commitment to creating a society where women can live and work without fear of harassment. We advocate for a transparent determination of the allegations, as it will ensure the Senate remains free from any taint of partisanship or bias.
senate and Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum
In light of the serious implications for gender issues in Nigeria, we call on the leadership of the National Assembly to conduct a comprehensive investigation in accordance with Senate rules. The NBAWF is committed to empowering women in the legal profession by addressing gender bias, pay disparities, sexual harassment, and violence against women, among other critical issues.
To monitor the proceedings, we have established a Committee that will follow the investigation and ensure its results are made publicly available in the interest of justice. We trust that the leadership of the National Assembly will uphold the dignity and respect of all individuals, regardless of gender, within the Senate.
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