Politics
Senator Ireti Kingibe Revolts, Demands Open Probe Of Sexual Harassment Claim Against Akpabio
By Imman Onyero
Senator Ireti Kingibe has pulled back from her unabashed defence of Senator Godswill Akpabio over the sexual harassment allegation raised by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and called on the Senate President to subject himself to an open investigative hearing.
GWG.ng reports that Senator Kingibe’s pullback follows her relentless dragging on social media after she initially appeared to be dismissive of the allegation made by Akpoti-Uduaghan against Akpabio.
Affirming her new stance and explaining that she would never support the harassment of women or even men, she said:
“As the Senator Representing the Federal Capital Territory, FCT in the 10th Senate, and the Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, I would like to state to all Nigerians that I am aware of the public dismay and I would like to address a few things officially.
First, I would like to assure Nigerians that I will be at the forefront to champion the Sexual harassment case involving my colleague, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, when the investigation comes to the red chamber. I am aware of the narrative that has been going around, and to set the record straight, my actions were not to undermine her claims, but to buttress that I was not aware in the first place of any such happenings.
Notwithstanding, I remain steadfast in the fight against all forms of violence against girls and women.
As a sitting Senator, I will always defend the truth and fight to right all wrongs. Over the years, sexual harassment and assault have become commonplace in our homes and workplaces. Every Nigerian, irrespective of gender, ethnicity, or religion, should be committed to the struggle to end it as it affects all genders.
Once an accusation of sexual harassment is formally tabled before the Senate, it would be incumbent on the body to note that this weighty issue must be investigated thoroughly by the appropriate mechanisms within the institution of the Senate.
The office of the Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, which I chair, stands as a pillar of hope and a watershed for equality, equity, inclusivity, and opportunity. It offers Nigerian women recourse, refuge, and the right to dignity and social justice. It’s in this capacity that I am demanding an open, transparent and fair investigation into the allegations of sexual harassment. Justice, fairness and equity must be provided for everyone regardless of gender, position or social class.
I affirm my commitment to protecting the rights of girls and women across Nigeria.
I align with the global community in advocating for increased gender equity in political representation and across all sectors of our society. To this end, I am focused on advancing the 35% Gender Inclusion Bill and the establishment of special seats for women to ensure greater participation of women in governance.
The Gender Equity Bill 2025, SB 743, which I am pushing has passed the first reading and is now awaiting the second reading.
I remain resolute in my service to the Nigerian people, undeterred by falsehoods, and committed to fostering a democracy where justice, fairness, and equity prevails.
I would like, therefore, to assure Nigerians, especially Nigerian women, my obedient political family and my FCT Constituents, that I remain focused on delivering good governance even amid daunting challenges, that a new Nigeria may prevail.
Any disinformation trying to purport that I am sympathetic to sexual harassment of ANY kind, whether in the Senate or elsewhere, should be disregarded.
“As a leader and Senator, I will never do anything to undermine your valuable trust”.
Finally, I like to reaffirm my steadfast commitment to protecting the rights of girls and women across Nigeria.
I remain resolute in my service to the Nigerian people and committed to fostering a democracy where justice, fairness, and equality are paramount.”
GWG.ng reports that Senator Kingibe’s demand of an investigation of Akpabio follows mixed reports in Nigerian news media over the assertions by Akpoti-Uduaghan against the Senate President.
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