By Bunmi Yekini
A coalition of over 350 women’s rights advocates under the platform of WOMANIFESTO has called for the immediate resignation of Senate President Godswill Akpabio following allegations of sexual harassment made against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti.
In a strongly worded statement, the coalition described the allegations as “grave” and insisted that they “cannot be dismissed.”
“This is a core learning moment for all Nigerians, especially as it concerns the protection of women and girls against sexual and gender-based violence,” said Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, Co-convener of WOMANIFESTO.
The demand follows a heated exchange in the Senate, where Senator Akpoti accused Akpabio of inappropriate behavior. The situation has reignited concerns about the treatment of female legislators, with the coalition noting that three female Senators have recently faced derogatory remarks in the chamber.
“The Senate President is strictly in the status of a first among equals,” the statement read. “We expect our lawmakers to uphold the highest standards of excellence and character, worthy of emulation.”
The group also pointed out a previous sexual harassment allegation against Akpabio by Joy Nunieh, a former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, in 2020.
Demands for Public Investigation
WOMANIFESTO is insisting on an immediate independent investigation into the allegations and has rejected the Senate’s initial decision to refer the matter to its Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions unless it is raised to the status of a public hearing.
“The National Assembly must recognize that it is equally on trial before the whole nation,” the statement added.
The coalition made four key demands:
- Immediate resignation of Senate President Akpabio.
- A transparent investigation into the allegations.
- A public hearing by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions.
- Due legal process for all related matters already in court.
“We demand justice. We demand accountability. We demand the protection of Nigerian women and girls,” the statement concluded.