First Lady Remi Tinubu has defended the Nigerian Senate amid sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Speaking ahead of International Women’s Day, she described the Senate as a “matured” institution deserving of respect. Tinubu also urged women to be assertive and not tolerate intimidation in leadership roles.
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has defended the integrity of the Nigerian Senate amid allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Speaking to journalists ahead of International Women’s Day, she insisted that the Senate remains a “matured” institution that should be treated with respect.
Her comments come in response to the growing controversy over accusations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who alleged misconduct and abuse of power by Akpabio. While the Senate has dismissed the claims, the issue has sparked nationwide debate. Mrs. Tinubu, a former senator herself, refrained from directly addressing the allegations but maintained that the Senate should not be reduced to a place of scandal.
“We shouldn’t be hearing things like that. It’s a mature chamber and should be treated with respect. It’s an honor to be in that place,” she stated. She also urged Nigerian women to be assertive in leadership roles, encouraging them to stand their ground against intimidation.
As the controversy continues, Mrs. Tinubu praised the achievements of Nigerian women ahead of International Women’s Day, citing figures like Zuriel Oduwole, who has championed peace and youth empowerment. She encouraged women to strive for excellence and not allow themselves to be treated with disrespect in professional spaces.
The Senate has yet to make a final ruling on the allegations, but the debate has intensified discussions on gender dynamics and accountability within Nigeria’s political sphere.
