Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has pledged her support to investigate the sexual harassment claims made by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the senator for Kogi Central.
Akpoti-Uduaghan alleges that Senate President Godswill Akpabio made unwanted sexual advances towards her during a visit to his residence in Akwa Ibom State.
This accusation arose following a dispute between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio over a change in her assigned seat within the Senate.
Kingibe had initially minimized the seating issue, pointing out that other senators were also affected and that it shouldn’t have been blown out of proportion.
However, Kingibe has now reversed her stance, publishing a statement on X to clarify that her initial comments were made before she was aware of the sexual harassment allegations.
Read Also: Akpabio, Others To Appear Before Senate Committee Over Alleged Sexual Harassment – Deputy Chief Whip
She firmly denies any intention to discredit Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims and has committed to pursuing the matter.
“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,” Kingibe stated.
Senator Kingibe emphasized her dedication to combating violence against women and girls, highlighting the critical need to confront sexual harassment and assault within Nigeria.
“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.”
In her capacity as leader of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, Kingibe underscored that her position is dedicated to securing fairness and equal rights for women across Nigeria.
“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.”
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