First lady, Remi Tinubu weighs in on Natasha’s sexual harassment allegation against Akpabio

Oluremi Tinubu, wife of Nigeria’s President, has weighed in on the sexual harassment allegations leveled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. 

The controversy began on February 20, when Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan engaged in a heated debate over seating arrangements in the upper legislative chamber. Akpoti-Uduaghan later alleged that her troubles started after she rejected Akpabio’s sexual advances. 

Akpoti-Uduaghan submitted a sexual harassment petition against Akpabio, but the senate committee on ethics and privileges rejected it, citing due process and legal limitations. 
 

Reacting to the saga, Mrs. Tinubu expressed her belief that the senate is taking necessary steps to address the allegations. 
 

She said: “I know with what is going on in the senate, you may say, why am I not taking a position? I believe that senate is doing what is needful, because that’s what it is.” 

“We shouldn’t be hearing things like that. It’s a matured chamber, and it should be treated with respect. It’s an honour for you to be in that place alone. 

“I was there for 12 years, even in my younger days, and I’m still trying to look young, but people compliment you all the time. Women, raise yourself, don’t be in a position that men will be talking to you anyhow. You can always shut them down before they start,” she added. 
 

Mrs Tinubu added that Nigerian youths are equipped with what it takes to excel, urging women to continue lifting their heads high and doing their best. 

She acknowledged the progress women have made and encouraged them to continue striving for excellence.