Protesters in Edo State demand justice after Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for accusing Senate President Akpabio of harassment
A massive wave of anger swept through Edo State on Wednesday as hundreds of protesters, including members of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), women’s groups, and concerned citizens, took to the streets in a fiery demonstration against the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
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The demonstrators, chanting slogans and waving placards, marched through key locations, including the Edo State House of Assembly, Government House, and the secretariat of the State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
They condemned what they considered a grave injustice, calling it an act of misogyny and an effort to silence the senator after she accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment.
Grace Ese Obakina, speaking on behalf of the protesters, read a petition addressed to the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, the Governor, and the NUJ.
In the petition, Obakina denounced the suspension as an attempt to cover up serious allegations without a proper investigation.
“We stand against this disgraceful act of intimidation,” Obakina declared. “Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition accused the Senate President of sexual harassment, yet instead of conducting an impartial investigation, they suspended her for six months under the guise of breaching Senate rules. This is not just an injustice to her but an attack on every woman in Nigeria.”
The protesters demanded an independent investigation into the senator’s claims, calling for transparency and accountability. “Sexual harassment and misogyny cannot be swept under the rug. We demand justice!” Obakina shouted.
At the Government House, the Deputy Chief of Staff, Dr. Pius Alile, assured the protesters that their concerns would be taken seriously.
“The governor is a strong advocate for gender equality. Your concerns have been noted, and appropriate action will be taken,” Alile said.
Meanwhile, at the State House of Assembly, the Speaker’s media aide, Ivy Adodo-Ebojiele, also pledged that the matter would not be ignored.
“The issue of Natasha is one issue too many,” she emphasized, vowing that the Assembly would ensure justice is served.
The protesters’ demands have sent a strong message, and all eyes are now on the authorities to see whether they will take meaningful action or allow another powerful voice to be silenced in the corridors of power.
