In a disheartening display of disrespect and gender bias, the President of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Godswill Akpabio, recently demeaned Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by comparing her conduct in the Senate to behavior suited to ‘a nightclub’. This is not the first instance of such behavior from Senator Akpabio; he recently silenced Senator Ireti Kingibe in a similarly dismissive manner, underscoring a troubling pattern.
Senator Akpabio’s remarks go beyond an isolated insult; they symbolize the maintenance of gender hierarchies and the silencing of female voices in critical political spaces. Comparing a female senator’s parliamentary conduct to nightclub behavior is both sexist and an explicit attempt to bully and trivialize her contributions, diminishing her standing as a legitimate political actor. Such comments from the Senate President undermine the integrity of the Senate and contribute to a culture where women are undervalued and disrespected.
In a functioning democracy, especially a nascent one like Nigeria’s, every voice must be respected, regardless of gender. Dismissing female leaders with misogynistic comments undermines robust debate and diverse perspectives, which are crucial for effective policy making. Such attitudes reinforce harmful stereotypes, discourage women’s political participation, and perpetuate a male-dominated landscape. This is particularly detrimental for regions like northern Nigeria, where women face even more significant barriers to public office.
Indeed, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan emerged successful in a challenging electoral process to become the undisputed representative of her people in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The exclusion or undermining of voices like hers can lead to governance that overlooks the needs and experiences of at least 50% of the population, reducing the overall quality and responsiveness of political decision-making.
The contribution of the female voice in governance is not just a matter of fairness; it is a democratic imperative. Senator Akpabio’s censure of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan must be addressed seriously. This is a call to action for the Senate to uphold norms of respect and equity and to hold itself accountable. Only then can governance be truly representative and democracy genuinely participatory, fostering a society that values equity, inclusion, and diversity across all dimensions.
We require immediate redress. We pray that Senate President Akpabio will embody the true spirit of “God’s will” by showing the grace and integrity required to ensure that all senators are treated with the respect and fairness they deserve.
Signed:
Voices for Inclusion and Equity for Women (VIEW)
Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode
Aisha Waziri
Amina Salihu
Asmau Joda
Ene Ede
Ene Orgah
Fatima Akilu
Ier Jonathan-Ichaver
Kadaria Ahmed
Larai Ocheja Amusan
Mairo Mandara
Maryam Lemu
Maryam Uwais
Nguyan Feese
Rekiya Abaji
Sa’ida Sa’ad
Saudatu Mahdi
Ummahani Amin
Zainab Salihijo
Zaynab Musa
VIEW is a North Central, North East, and North West Nigeria, coalition committed to fostering equitable, inclusive, and just societies for women across the Nation.
VIEW welcomes and salutes all other statements on this matter geared towards ensuring redress and a culture of ethical behavior in public life.
Nigeria
2024
