Today, as the world marks International Women’s Day—a day meant to amplify the voices of women and highlight the struggles they face—it is disheartening to witness the suspension of Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan after she accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment. This incident is not just an attack on one woman but a chilling reminder of the systemic silencing of women in power, particularly in male-dominated spaces like politics.
Senator Akpoti Uduaghan courageously spoke out about the alleged harassment she faced from Akpabio, detailing how he blocked a motion she attempted to introduce in the Senate and then insinuated that its passage depended on her willingness to grant him sexual favors. Rather than investigate these grave allegations, the Nigerian Senate chose to suspend her for six months under the pretense of an unrelated dispute over her seating arrangement. To make matters worse, her petition on sexual harassment was dismissed on procedural grounds.
This move is not just unjust; it is a blatant attempt to discourage women from speaking out against abuse and misconduct. By punishing a woman for demanding justice, the Nigerian Senate has sent a dangerous message: women who challenge male authority will be silenced.
Even more concerning is the deafening silence from women in power and society at large. One would have expected a collective outcry from female politicians, activists, and the general public. Instead, many have chosen to remain quiet, possibly out of fear, social pressure, or resignation to the status quo. This silence is as painful as the injustice itself. It reinforces the notion that sexual harassment is something women must endure quietly, rather than fight against.
International Women’s Day should not be a mere symbolic celebration filled with flowery speeches and social media hashtags. It should be a day when women stand together to demand real change—changes that protect them from harassment, ensure their voices are heard, and hold perpetrators accountable. The struggle for gender equality should not be limited to one day of recognition; it should be a sustained effort to challenge the patriarchal structures that continue to suppress women’s rights.
Sexual harassment is a serious issue, one that requires more than just public discourse—it demands action. The Nigerian government had an opportunity to set a precedent by launching a thorough investigation into the senator’s claims. Instead, by choosing to punish her, they have once again reinforced the narrative that women in Nigeria are second-class citizens in politics and society.
Women should not have to choose between their careers and their dignity. They should not be forced to remain silent out of fear of retaliation. If we truly believe in the principles of International Women’s Day, then we must ensure that speaking out against injustice leads to change, not punishment.
As we reflect on this year’s Women’s Day, let us ask ourselves: Will we allow this to be another year of empty promises, or will we demand accountability and fight for a world where women are protected, heard, and respected? The answer will determine the future of gender equality, not just in Nigeria but across the world.
