Ireti Kingibe, the senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has vowed to champion the sexual harassment allegations made by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the lawmaker representing Kogi Central.
Akpoti-Uduaghan recently accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of making inappropriate advances toward her during a visit to his home in Akwa Ibom State. Her accusation followed a heated exchange with Akpabio over changes to her seating arrangement in the Senate.
Initially, Kingibe had downplayed the significance of the seating rearrangement controversy, stating that Akpoti-Uduaghan was not the only lawmaker affected and suggesting that the matter should not have been escalated.
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However, in a statement posted on her X page on Friday, Kingibe clarified her position, dismissing claims that her earlier stance was intended to undermine Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations. She explained that she had been unaware of the sexual harassment claims at the time.
“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.
She reaffirmed her commitment to fighting all forms of violence against women and girls, stressing the importance of addressing sexual harassment and assault in Nigerian society.
“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.”
As Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, Kingibe emphasized the role of her office in promoting justice and equality for Nigerian women.
“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.
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“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.”
Kingibe also used the opportunity to advocate for greater female representation in governance, citing her efforts to push for the 35% Gender Inclusion Bill and the establishment of special seats for women in government.
“I align with the global community in advocating for increased gender equity in political representation and across all sectors of our society. To this end, I am focused on advancing the 35% Gender Inclusion Bill and the establishment of special seats for women to ensure greater participation of women in governance.
“The Gender Equity Bill 2025, SB 743, which I am pushing, has passed the first reading and is now awaiting the second reading. I remain resolute in my service to the Nigerian people, undeterred by falsehoods, and committed to fostering a democracy where justice, fairness, and equity prevail.”
With her latest statement, Kingibe has positioned herself as a key advocate for transparency in addressing sexual harassment allegations within the Senate, reinforcing her commitment to gender equity and justice in Nigeria.
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