The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria has called for an independent, and transparent investigation into the sexual harassment allegation leveled against Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
FIDA warned that any attempt to downplay or dismiss it would undermine the credibility of Nigeria’s institutions and discourage women from participating in leadership.
The Country Vice President of FIDA, Eliana Martins, and National Publicity Secretary, Chineze Obianyo in a statement on Sunday said: “Sexual harassment in any form is a gross violation of human rights, an abuse of authority, and a stain on the integrity of governance.
“While this remains an allegation, it is a serious and weighty claim that warrants immediate, impartial, and thorough investigation.
“If proven, it would represent a disturbing abuse of power and a direct assault on the dignity and rights of women in leadership, governance, and decision-making positions.”
Other parts of the statement read;
Sexual Harassment within the corridors of power is more than a personal violation—it is an attack on gender equality, sexual gender-based violence, a betrayal of public trust and confidence, and indeed a stain on the integrity of governance.
It fosters a toxic culture, where women in leadership are subjected to intimidation, coercion, harassment, abuse, and discrimination—barriers that have long hindered female participation in politics, governance, and decision-making.
FIDA Nigeria unequivocally condemns any form of intimidation and harassment; and calls for swift and expeditious action to ensure that such injustice where found does not go unpunished by way of the prosecution to serve as a stern warning and deterrence against such threats and acts.
This issue transcends politics. It is about law, justice, and fundamental human rights. The 1999 Constitution of Nigeria guarantees every citizen the right to dignity (Section 34) and freedom from any form of discrimination (Section 42).
The combination of the provisions of The Administration of Criminal Justice Act, Criminal Code Act, Penal Code Act, and The Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP) 2015, explicitly criminalizes sexual harassment, intimidation, and abuse of authority.
Nigeria is also bound by its obligations under international law including but not limited to The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), which mandates proactive measures to combat sexual harassment in all sectors.
The gravity of this allegation requires more than a public outcry. It demands decisive and accelerated action.
What is more worrisome is that the allegation is coming from the Legislative Arm of the Government: a body principally charged with the responsibility of making laws for the entire country.
It is very disturbing that the allegation is against the head of the third arm of the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in a time and age when the global community avoids such acts as the plague.
FIDA Nigeria calls for an immediate, independent, and transparent investigation of Senator Akpoti’s allegation to establish the truth and ensure accountability. Silence or inaction will only embolden perpetrators and deter victims from speaking out.
We must be able to restore confidence and respect for our government in the minds of the citizens. This will be lacking if the allegation is not objectively investigated and the report is made public. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done.
Power should never be a shield for misconduct, nor should any woman be subjected to any form of harassment – whether in politics or the workplace or indeed in any sphere of society.
We also emphasize the need for protection against retaliation, ensuring that any woman who speaks out does not face intimidation, political persecution, or career setbacks. Women must be afforded the leeway and platforms to speak out their truth without fear of backlash or persecution.
This moment must serve as a turning point in addressing the systemic barriers that discourage women from holding leadership positions.
We, therefore, once again, call for the full implementation of the 35% affirmative action for women in governance to move beyond rhetorics to reality.
We must create a political and institutional environment where no woman is forced to choose between her dignity and her ambition. Women must be given room to render bold and courageous service to the country.
FIDA Nigeria stands firm in its zero-tolerance against all forms of abuse and gender-based violence. We urge all relevant authorities, civil society organizations, the legal community, and the public to stand together in demanding justice, accountability, and a safer Nigeria for women.
Every woman, irrespective of her status, deserves to be protected and free from all forms of oppression, harassment, intimidation, abuse, and violence.
Justice must prevail. The time for action is now!
