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…Urge Senate Committee to Uphold Justice, Avoid Prejudiced Decisions
South-South women have cautioned the Nigerian Senate and its Committee on Ethics against making decisions that could plunge the nation into crisis, particularly concerning issues of gender discrimination in politics.
In a statement released in Asaba, Delta State, on Friday, the group commended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, for her courage, boldness, and unwavering contributions to nation-building.
“Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is a hero and a source of daily inspiration, not just in Nigeria but across the continent,” the statement read.
The women specifically urged the Senate Ethics Committee to ensure that its recommendations are fair, just, and not dictated by special interests.
“The Ethics Committee should carefully assess the root causes of this crisis instead of delivering politically motivated and destructive recommendations,” the statement emphasized.
Condemning Gender Discrimination in Politics
Titled “Alienation of Women Politicians in Nigeria: Fatal Misunderstanding, Bullying, Abuse of Power, and Precarious Authority,” the statement strongly criticized:
- Illegal actions against female politicians
- Discrimination and victimization of women in leadership
- Deliberate exclusion of women from political affairs
The women denounced the common stereotype of labeling strong and successful women as “rude” to discredit them.
“Even if male politicians and their female supporters shout from the rooftops, the facts of this incident prove otherwise,” they stated.
Call for Gender Equality in Nigerian Politics
Chief Rita Okonji, Chairman of South-South Women in Politics, called on the Senate to foster unity, urging lawmakers to treat each other as colleagues, not adversaries.
“Do not resist the voice of honor and reason. Do not insult the intelligence of Nigerian women. Do not make your colleagues objects of ridicule before the world for selfish interests,” she urged.
The women emphasized that a drastic change in mindset and attitude towards women in politics is long overdue.
“Our dignity and survival are at stake. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s action is a bold step toward change. Her courage should serve as a wake-up call for male politicians to respect and include women in governance,” the statement declared.
They warned against the gradual exclusion of women from Nigeria’s political space, stating that such a development could transform the country into “a government of only men.”
Unwavering Support for Akpoti-Uduaghan
The group vowed to stand by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and other female politicians in their struggles against injustice and gender bias.
“She is a virtuous patriot. Our support for her is not about malice but about ensuring fairness, gender equality, and respect for women in Nigerian politics,” they affirmed.
The South-South women urged politicians to uphold the principles of democracy and put an end to discriminatory practices against women in leadership.
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