The Socialist Workers League has demanded the immediate reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan while calling for Senate President Godswill Akpabio to step aside amid allegations of sexual harassment.
In a statement released Wednesday, the organization emphasized the need for a fair and transparent investigation, arguing that Akpabio “cannot be a judge in his own case.”
The statement, signed by National Chairperson Jamiu Towolawi and National Secretary Amara Nwosu, also condemned sexism and sexual harassment in the Nigerian Senate and the broader National Assembly.
The group further called for the resignation of Senator Neda Imasuen, who chairs the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions.
They criticized Imasuen’s role in recommending Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, highlighting his past legal troubles.
The league noted that Imasuen was disbarred in the United States and allegedly fled to Nigeria after being implicated in a $25 million fraud case investigated by the FBI.
In their statement, the Socialist Workers League denounced the Senate’s handling of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations, describing the institution’s actions as undemocratic.
They argued that rather than investigating the claims of sexual harassment against Akpabio, the Senate had chosen to punish the accuser, suspending her for six months.
“This is unacceptable,” the statement read. “The way the Senate has handled this matter trivializes a major democratic issue. It is not just about Senator Natasha; it is about the broader struggle for women’s rights in a political system still plagued by sexism and patriarchy.”
The group also linked Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension to her efforts to expose corruption in the Senate, particularly regarding the unproductive state of the Ajaokuta Steel Company.
According to the statement, her motion to address the steel plant’s mismanagement may have contributed to the backlash she faced.
They further criticized the Nigerian Senate, claiming it prioritizes self-interest and corruption over the well-being of citizens. “The chamber is filled with individuals who would rather protect their legacy of ignominy than secure the future of Nigerians,” the statement added.
