IPU RESPONDS TO SENATOR NATASHA’S COMPLAINT AGAINST AKPABIO: ‘WE WILL BE WORKING ON THEM’

The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) has pledged to review the complaint brought forward by Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Akpoti-Uduaghan had petitioned the IPU over her six-month suspension from the Nigerian Senate, alleging victimization and sexual harassment.

Speaking at the Women in Parliament session at the United Nations in New York, the suspended senator made an emotional appeal, calling for justice and urging global democratic institutions to intervene. She described her suspension as unlawful and a direct act of injustice against her.

In response, IPU President Tulia Ackson assured that the matter would be addressed with due process. While acknowledging Akpoti-Uduaghan’s concerns, she emphasized the need to hear both sides before taking further action.

“There was a matter raised by our colleague from Nigeria, Senator Natasha, during our first session this morning,” Ackson stated. “We have heard her concerns, and while it would have been beneficial to delve deeper into the issue at the moment, we recognize that we have only heard one side. As an institution, the IPU will consider the concerns raised, but in accordance with our custom, we will also listen to the other side before making any decisions.”

Ackson further noted that a Nigerian delegate present at the session had requested to speak but was unable to due to time constraints. She reassured that the IPU remains committed to addressing such issues with fairness and due diligence.

“We will be working on the concerns raised, ensuring that both perspectives are considered before taking the necessary steps,” she concluded.