Women Initiative for Advocacy, Social Justice and Empowerment (WIASE) stands firmly against all acts of discrimination and authoritarianism that undermine the principles of democracy and gender equality in our nation’s legislative chambers. The recent expulsion of Senator Mrs. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Representing Kogi Central) from the Senate chamber by the Senate President, allegedly over her protest against an abrupt seat reassignment, is not only an affront to her dignity as an elected representative but a blatant violation of the rights of women in governance. We condemn this action unequivocally and demand accountability.
A DANGEROUS PRECEDENT FOR WOMEN’S REPRESENTATION
On 20th February, 2025, during a plenary session, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan protested the unauthorized relocation of her seat, a move she was neither consulted about nor informed of prior. Citing Order 10 of the Senate Standing Rules, which safeguards members’ privileges, she sought recognition from the Senate President to address her grievances. Instead of facilitating a constructive dialogue, Senate President Akpabio dismissed her concerns and escalated the situation by instructing security personnel to remove her from the chamber. This heavy-handed response not only silenced a duly elected representative but also sent a chilling message to women across the nation about their place in political discourse.
This incident is not isolated. In July 2024, during a plenary session, Senate President Akpabio made a derogatory remark towards Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, suggesting that the Senate was not a “nightclub” after she spoke without formal recognition. Such comments reflect deep-seated biases and a lack of respect for women, further entrenching gender disparities in our political system.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s removal for asserting her right to question procedural changes sends a chilling message to women. Such conduct from the Senate President shows a culture of intimidation that discourages women from actively participating in governance. Nigeria’s Senate, which already suffers from abysmally low female representation (just 7% of seats), cannot afford to normalize tactics that further marginalize women’s voices.
This incident reflects broader systemic issues. When a woman legislator is ejected for advocating fairness, it reinforces harmful stereotypes that women should be seen, not heard, in positions of power. The Senate President’s actions contradict the spirit of Section 42 of the Nigerian Constitution, which prohibits discrimination based on gender, and violate the principles of parliamentary decorum, which should prioritize respectful debate over punitive retaliation.
UNDERMINING DEMOCRATIC INTEGRITY
A legislature’s strength lies in its commitment to dialogue, transparency, and equity. By unilaterally ejecting a senator without due process, the Senate President has abused his authority, turning the chamber into a space of arbitrary rule rather than democratic deliberation. If seating arrangements are disputed, protocols exist to address such matters—protocols that must be applied impartially, regardless of gender.
This is not merely about a seat; it is about whether Nigeria’s democracy can protect the rights of all elected officials to advocate for their constituents without fear of retribution. The Senate President’s conduct sets a dangerous precedent, eroding public trust in legislative fairness and inclusivity.
OUR CALL TO ACTION
Women Initiative for Advocacy, Social Justice and Empowerment hereby demands:
- The immediate suspension of the Senate President for his discriminatory action and breach of parliamentary ethics.
- A formal apology to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and all Nigerian women, reaffirming the Senate’s commitment to gender equality.
- Review of Senate rules to ensure transparent processes for resolving disputes and safeguarding against gender-based discrimination.
CONCLUSION
We urge all citizens, civil society organizations, advocates of women and democracy to join us in condemning this injustice. Nigeria’s progress hinges on the full participation of women in leadership. The Senate President’s actions betray the aspirations of millions of Nigerian women and girls who look to their leaders for inspiration. Let us stand united to ensure that no woman—elected or ordinary—is silenced or sidelined again.
