Natasha’s suspension: Oluremi Tinubu supports Senate decision
By Ndukaku Ihe
Mrs Oluremi Tinubu
First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu has said the Senate should be a place of honour and not controversy.
Mrs Tinubu who was reacting to the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan encouraged Nigerian women to be assertive in leadership roles.
She expressed belief that the Senate was taking the necessary steps with respect to the sexual harassment allegation made by Akpoti-Uduaghan, the senator representing Kogi Central, against Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
She said: “I know with what is going on in the Senate, you may wonder why I have not taken a position. I believe the Senate is doing what is necessary because that is its role.
“We should not be hearing such things. It is a matured chamber, and it should be treated with respect. Being in that space alone is an honour.
“I was there for 12 years; even in my younger days, and I’m still trying to look young, but people always compliment you.
“Women, uplift yourselves. Do not put yourselves in positions where men can talk to you anyhow. You can always shut them down before they even start.”
The First Lady acknowledged the progress women have made over the years, citing figures like Zuriel Oduwole, who advocates for peace. She urged Nigerian women to remain confident, strive for excellence, and hold their heads high.
She also urged Nigerian women to assert themselves in leadership and not be sidelined.
“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.
She acknowledged the significant progress women have made over the decades, from the matriarchs of old to contemporary figures like Zuriel Oduwole, who champions peace.
On February 20, Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan had a heated exchange in the Senate chamber over sitting arrangements.
Following the incident, Akpoti-Uduaghan alleged that her troubles in the Senate began after she rejected Akpabio’s sexual advances.
She later submitted a petition on sexual harassment against Akpabio, but the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges dismissed it, citing procedural breaches and legal constraints.
