FROM BABA UTHMAN, MINNA
The North Central Women Association (NCWA), has in strong terms condemned the unguarded remarks by Senate President Godswill Akpabio against Senator Khadija Natasha Uduaghan representing Kogi Central Zone at the Upper Chamber of the National Assembly.
Senator Natasha Uduaghan Akpoti Representing Kogi Central Senatorial districts has in the last week taken a centre stage as a result of the sudden change of her seating arrangement in the Upper Chamber of the National Assembly.
During the house plenary, the Senator created a dramatic scene which has now become a Subject of discussion even accusing the Senate President of Sexual harrasement.
The President of the Association Dr. Maryam Abu-Goodman who made the condemnation in a Press Statement described the utterances of the Senate President as undistinguished which she noted undermines the esteem dignity of women in leadership.
She stated also that the conduct of the Senate president is unacceptable and a direct affront to the values of democracy, fairness and gender equality.
According to the National President of North Central States Women Association Senator Godswill Akpabio should without further delay tender a public and unreserved apology to Senator Natasha for his unacceptable treatment of her on the floor of the National Assembly.
"The North Central Women Association strongly condemns the recent actions and remarks by Senate President Godswill Akpabio towards Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, an elected representative of the people
"His conduct, which undermines the dignity of women in leadership, is unacceptable and a direct affront to the values of democracy, fairness, and gender inclusion.
"We demand that Senator Akpabio tenders a public and unreserved apology to Senator Natasha for his unacceptable treatment of her on the Senate floor.
"Leadership requires decorum, respect, and an unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of democracy, and his actions have fallen short of these expectations.
"This incident highlights the urgent need for greater inclusion of women in politics and governance.
" Women must not only be allowed to participate but must also be treated with the same level of respect and dignity as their male counterparts.
"The days of systemic discrimination, intimidation, and silencing of women in leadership are over.
"We call on the National Assembly, political stakeholders, and the Nigerian people to stand firm in rejecting any form of gender-based bias.
" The North Central Women stands united in its commitment to equity, justice, and the empowerment of women in leadership positions.
"A nation that silences its women silences its future. The time for change is now". Dr Maryam Abu-Goodman asserted.
