Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria has issued a firm call for an immediate, independent, and transparent investigation into the sexual harassment allegation leveled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Describing the allegation as a serious abuse of power, 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.
“Sexual harassment in any form is a gross violation of human rights, an abuse of authority, and a stain on the integrity of governance. No woman in public office—or anywhere—should be subjected to such indignity,” FIDA stated in a release signed by its Country Vice President, Eliana Martins, and National Publicity Secretary, Chineze Obianyo.
FIDA stressed that silence or inaction in this case would embolden perpetrators and send a dangerous message that powerful figures are above the law. It cited key legal frameworks, including the 1999 Constitution, the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP) 2015, and Nigeria’s commitments under international treaties like the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), all of which criminalize sexual harassment and demand accountability.
“Justice must be swift, decisive, and transparent. Nigerians deserve to know that no position of power grants immunity from accountability,” the statement read.
Beyond the immediate case, FIDA condemned the persistent culture of intimidation and harassment that discourages women from seeking leadership positions.
The organization demanded full implementation of the 35% affirmative action for women in governance and called for stronger institutional protections to ensure female politicians can serve without fear of abuse.
“Enough is enough. Women in politics must not be treated as easy targets for harassment and intimidation. The time for systemic change is now,” the group declared.
FIDA urged the Senate, civil society, and law enforcement agencies to act without bias or delay, warning that failure to address this case would set a dangerous precedent for impunity.
“Power must never be a shield for misconduct. We demand the truth, and we demand justice—nothing less.”