opinions for Inclusion and Equity for Women (VIEW), an organization, has accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of stifling women’s opinions, calling his recent measures against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan a dangerous instance of intimidation based on gender.
The group VIEW, which is dedicated to creating fair and welcoming political environments for women, denounced what it called “Akpabio’s sustained disrespect for female lawmakers.”
When Akpoti-Uduaghan was told to leave the Senate chambers while claiming her right to speak, the group was indignant and said it was part of a bigger pattern of systemic oppression.
Asma’u Joda, Maryam Uwais, Mairo Mandara, Fatima Akilu, Aisha Oyebode, Kadaria Ahmed, and Aisha Waziri Ibrahim are among the notable female leaders who are part of the coalition. They have stated that it is intolerable for female politicians to continue to be harassed.
The Senate President has shown flagrant disrespect for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and other women in leadership roles on numerous occasions, therefore this is not a unique incident. “This trend needs to be questioned and contested,” the group said.
“I am not afraid of you,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said defiantly, and VIEW said it is a rallying call for all women in leadership who would not be silenced.
The poisonous political climate that compels female MPs to struggle for their rights outside of their legislative responsibilities was denounced by them.
How come the Senate President is unable to interact with Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan without using contempt and condescension? Regardless of gender, a democratic institution’s head must maintain inclusivity, equity, and respect for all parliamentarians, the statement continued.
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In addition to calling for tangible steps to eradicate gender-based intimidation in the Senate, VIEW urged the Nigerian legislative to foster an atmosphere in which women’s opinions are valued, respected, and promoted in administration.
“With Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and other Nigerian women who reject silence, we remain steadfast in our support. A democracy in crisis is one that silences the voices of women.
Until real inclusivity is attained, the group vowed to keep demanding justice, equity, and accountability.