Not About Natasha’ by Bisi Adeleye: A Story That Speaks Volumes

Not About Natasha’ by Bisi Adeleye: A Story That Speaks Volumes

Over the past two weeks, a series of events in the Nigerian Senate have left many of us astounded. It is not unusual for disagreements and conflicts to arise in such a diverse body, but the recent incidents go beyond what can be deemed ordinary……..READ MORE

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, was denied the chance to speak on the Senate floor because her seat had been moved. She refused to move to her new seat, feeling disrespected and undermined. It seems Senator Natasha had accumulated frustrations, particularly with Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She made serious allegations of sexual harassment against him on national television.

Following her statement, the situation quickly escalated. Senator Ireti Kingibe, along with former Senators Abiodun Olujimi and Florence Ita-Giwa, were asked to share their perspectives. All three are esteemed colleagues whom I respect greatly, but I found their responses disappointing. While they rightly emphasized the importance of following Senate rules, they failed to acknowledge that Senator Natasha felt targeted, believing there was a personal vendetta against her by the Senate President. This situation warranted an investigation into her sexual harassment allegations, not just a public airing of grievances.

Regrettably, none of the female senators came to Senator Natasha’s defense. Even if they believed her approach or conduct was flawed, she still deserved to be heard. The missed opportunity here was in addressing the systemic intimidation, gaslighting, and belittling that women in leadership positions often face.

I was particularly disheartened by Senator Florence Ita-Giwa’s statement that no female senator could ever be harassed. This claim ignores the very real instances of mistreatment that female politicians, including Senator Oluremi Tinubu, have endured, with no consequences. Women in leadership frequently contend with overwhelming patriarchal challenges and, while they may choose survival strategies, it is essential to take a stand for respect and dignity.

For those who have publicly opposed Senator Natasha, let me remind you: this is not just about following procedural rules. It is a larger battle against the silencing of women in public life. Senator Natasha’s case is not isolated; it reflects the larger fight against misogyny and the hostile environments women in politics must navigate. Women are expected to be quiet, obedient, and compliant. When they challenge the status quo, they are reprimanded and ostracized. The few women in leadership are often reminded of their “place” in the system.

What transpired in the Senate on March 6th, 2025, was an affront to justice and fairness. The Senate President should not have presided over a case involving allegations against him. Furthermore, the swift suspension of Senator Natasha was intended to humiliate and disempower her, despite legal rulings against such prolonged suspensions.

This is not just about Senator Natasha. It is about all women in leadership who face discrimination and abuse. We need to recognize and confront these systemic issues. As we observe International Women’s Day on March 8th, let us remember the real battles we need to fight, and not just the ones that seem convenient. We must stand together and demand a new culture of respect and equality for all women in leadership.

#IStandWithSenatorNatasha