The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Hajia Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, has expressed concern over the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, pledging to engage with the Senate to seek an amicable resolution.
Suleiman-Ibrahim, speaking at a press briefing at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Friday, described the sexual harassment allegations surrounding the issue as “unfortunate,” emphasizing that such incidents should have no place in the National Assembly.
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Akpoti-Uduaghan, who had accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, was suspended for alleged rules violations, reducing the number of female senators to just three out of 109.
“It is not a good thing to lose more women in the National Assembly at a time when we are already grossly underrepresented,” Suleiman said.
The minister stressed the need for greater cooperation between male and female lawmakers, adding that women in politics should be sensitized and encouraged to collaborate effectively.
She called for accelerated efforts to boost women’s representation in governance, insisting that they must have a stronger voice in decision-making.
Suleiman assured that she would engage with the Senate leadership to promote dialogue and ensure a fair resolution of the matter.
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