The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) has responded to complaints by Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, vowing to investigate allegations of sexual harassment and her subsequent suspension from the Nigerian Senate.
The announcement was made following Akpoti-Uduaghan’s address at the Women in Parliament session held at the United Nations in New York.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, told attendees that her suspension from the Nigerian Senate was unjust and linked to her petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
She stated, “I thought that by submitting the petition, he would recuse himself and both of us would submit ourselves to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petition for a fair and transparent investigation, but unfortunately, I was silenced and I was suspended.”
Addressing the complaint, IPU President Tulia Ackson assured that the organization is committed to following due process and ensuring both sides are heard.
“We have heard her concerns… but because we listened only on her side, as an institution, as IPU, we will be taking the concerns that have been raised, not only taking her side, but also giving a chance to listen to the other side, as it is a custom for IPU,” Ackson stated.
The conflict reportedly started with a disagreement over new seating arrangements in the Nigerian Senate. A verbal exchange ensued when Akpabio allegedly refused to acknowledge Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s contributions from her previous seat, leading to accusations of harassment and her eventual suspension.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan also expressed fears for her safety, hinting at potential repercussions for speaking out publicly at the international forum.
The IPU’s decision to conduct a thorough investigation underscores its commitment to fairness, transparency, and the integrity of parliamentary processes.
