Nigerian Delegate Calls for Transparent Inquiry into Sexual…

Kafilat Ogbara, a Nigerian delegate at the IPU, urged for a transparent investigation into sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, advocating for the protection of rights and integrity. Her statements were a response to accusations from Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan regarding suspensions intended to silence her claims. The matter has gained significant attention, demanding thorough exploration before conclusions are drawn.

At the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting, Kafilat Ogbara, a Nigerian delegate and chair of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, advocated for a transparent investigation into sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She highlighted the importance of safeguarding the rights of all individuals involved in the allegations during a press briefing at the United Nations headquarters in New York.

Mrs. Ogbara emphasized the need for thorough and impartial investigations that examine both claims and defenses fairly. She stated, “A thorough and unbiased investigation; ensuring that all claims and defenses are examined fairly and transparently; protection of all parties involved; safeguarding the rights of all individuals; and preventing any form of intimidation or retaliation…” Her remarks responded to concerns raised by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan about her suspension and allegations against Mr. Akpabio.

During the IPU meeting, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan claimed that her six-month suspension from the Senate was unlawful and was executed to silence her after she spoke out against alleged misconduct. She linked her suspension to her petition against Mr. Akpabio, calling for international intervention on behalf of Nigerian women facing similar issues.

In response to these allegations, IPU President Tulia Ackson indicated that the organization would take appropriate steps while also allowing the Nigerian Senate the chance to respond before any decisive action is taken. Mrs. Ogbara urged the National Assembly to ensure that the allegations against Mr. Akpabio and the defense responses are scrutinized thoroughly and fairly to uphold institutional integrity.

Expressing Nigeria’s commitment to justice and human rights, Mrs. Ogbara reaffirmed the need to address sexual harassment allegations responsibly and transparently. She stated, “Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to the principles of justice cannot be overemphasized…” She reiterated the importance of strong legal frameworks and institutional reforms in promoting women’s rights and combating gender-based violence.

Additionally, Mrs. Ogbara highlighted ongoing legislative initiatives, including the Reserve Seats Bill, aimed at improving women’s representation and advancing gender equality in Nigeria’s political landscape. The need for reforms was stressed as vital for addressing historical disparities in women’s political representation.

The allegations raised by Mrs. Akpoti-Udughan have sparked considerable attention both within Nigeria and globally. While acknowledging the serious nature of these claims, Mrs. Ogbara emphasized that fair consideration of all perspectives is crucial in reaching a judgment on such significant issues.

Finally, she read a letter from Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, indicating that Mrs. Akpoti-Udughan’s suspension was due to alleged misconduct under Senate rules—not directly related to the allegations against Mr. Akpabio. This clarification aims to provide context to the controversial suspension that occurred shortly after Mrs. Akpoti-Udughan’s allegations were made public.

Kafilat Ogbara’s advocacy for a transparent investigation into the allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio underscores the importance of institutional integrity and justice. With strong calls for safeguarding the rights of all individuals involved, the emphasis on legal reforms reflects Nigeria’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence and enhancing women’s representation in governance. As various stakeholders weigh these allegations, the balance of fair examination and transparency remains paramount.

Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com