Nigerian senator Natasha Akpoti appeals to global leaders after sexual harassment suspension
Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti has raised alarm over what she describes as political victimisation following her suspension from the Senate after lodging a sexual harassment complaint against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Speaking at the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), she pleaded for support from the global community while insisting on the systematic exclusion of women from leadership in Nigeria.
Natasha recounted her ordeal before a gathering of international legislators, “I come with a heavy heart from Nigeria,” she began. “But first, I’d like to apologise to honourable members - I am not here to bring shame to my country. I am here to seek help for the women of Nigeria.”
She explained that on March 6, 2025, she was suspended from the Nigerian Senate for submitting a petition of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She had hoped for a fair and transparent investigation, but instead, she was penalised and silenced.
“My suspension came with severe conditions: my security was withdrawn, my official vehicles and other entitlements were taken away, my salary was cut off, and I was barred from appearing near the National Assembly. For six months, I am not allowed to present myself as a senator, either locally or internationally,” Natasha detailed.
She condemned her suspension as an orchestrated attempt to sideline women in Nigeria’s political landscape, adding, “If a female senator can be treated this way in full public view, imagine what ordinary Nigerian women face every day in workplaces and universities.”
In response, the President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Tulia Ackson, acknowledged Natasha’s concerns and assured that the organisation would take steps to address the matter while also hearing from the Nigerian delegation.
“Dear colleagues, there was a matter that arose during the first session which we had this morning, the matter that was raised by our colleague from Nigeria, Senator Natasha. We have heard her concerns, and as an institution, the IPU will be taking the concerns raised, not only taking her side but also giving a chance to listen to the other side as is customary for the IPU,” Ackson stated.
She emphasised the need for a balanced approach, noting that while Natasha’s concerns had been heard, it was essential to allow the Nigerian delegation to also present its perspective before action would be taken.
Senate denies suspension over harassment claim
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Senate has clarified that Senator Natasha Akpoti’s suspension was not linked to her sexual harassment allegations against the Senate President. Instead, the upper chamber stated that she was suspended for violating Sections 6.1 and 6.2 of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 (as amended).
