… Describes Suspension as Unlawful
The Coalition of Women in Governance (CWIG) has called for the immediate reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The group in a statement signed by Amb. Zainab Mohammed on Friday, criticized the Senate’s action as an assault on democracy.
The coalition accused the violating the rule of law, betrayal of values and sending a bad signal to women who dares to challenge power while describing Senator Natasha’s suspension as first hand injustice.
The statement reads: “Fellow Nigerians, today we gather under the promise of a nation where no man is oppressed—yet, we witness the silencing of a duly elected senator, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Her suspension is not just an injustice against one woman; it is an assault on democracy, a betrayal of our collective values, and a dangerous signal to every Nigerian who dares to challenge power.
THE INJUSTICE AT HAND
Senator Natasha’s suspension is a clear violation of both parliamentary ethics and judicial authority:
1. It defies the rule of law. A court issued an order to halt any disciplinary action against her—yet the Senate proceeded in blatant defiance.
2. It disregards democratic principles. Senator Natasha was elected by the people, and her suspension silences not only her voice but also the voices of thousands who entrusted her with their mandate.
3. It is legally excessive. The Senate’s own rules permit a maximum 14-day suspension, yet she was suspended for six months—an action that flies in the face of legal precedent.
4. It threatens women’s inclusion. When a woman in leadership is targeted with impunity, it sends a chilling message to every young girl who dreams of serving her country.”
The CWIG in their call to action demanded the immediate reinstatement of Senator Natasha, respect for judicial authority and rule of law, accountability from Senate leadership while emphasizing on the need for a political system to empower women rather than prosecute them.
“We, the Coalition for Women in Governance, stand united in the call for:
Immediate reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The Senate must reverse this unjust suspension and restore her rights.
Respect for the judiciary. The Senate must uphold the law, not undermine it. If the highest legislative body ignores court orders, what message does that send to ordinary Nigerians?
A political system that empowers, not persecutes, women. The space for women in leadership must be expanded, not restricted through intimidation and exclusion.
Accountability from Senate leadership. This reckless abuse of power must have consequences. Those who enable oppression cannot be trusted to uphold democracy.
Photo of Ambassador Zainab Mohammed
A NATION WHERE NO MAN IS OPPRESSED
Our national anthem speaks of hope, unity, and justice. Today, we ask: Where is the justice in suppressing a woman’s voice? Where is the renewed hope in silencing the people’s representative?
To the Nigerian people, we say: This is our moment to demand accountability.
To women across this nation, we say: We will not be deterred.
To Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, we say: You are not alone.
The true test of democracy is not in words but in action. And today, we stand on the right side of history.
Justice must be served. Democracy must stand. Nigeria must be better.” The statement concluded.
