The Federal Government is in talks with the leadership of the National Assembly to resolve the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central.
Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, revealed on Friday that the government is working with stakeholders to ensure “justice with mercy” following the six-month suspension imposed on Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Senate.
The suspension came after Akpoti-Uduaghan submitted a petition accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, which the Senate dismissed on procedural grounds.
The Ethics Committee recommended the suspension, stating that Akpoti-Uduaghan had brought ridicule to the Senate.
Suleiman-Ibrahim expressed concern over the lack of female representation in the Senate, noting the previous assembly had nine women senators.
She emphasized the government’s commitment to preventing any reduction in female participation in the Senate. “We don’t want to be losing any woman member in the Senate,” she said.
The Minister also noted the Senate President’s openness to dialogue, adding, “We’re going to be the intermediary between the two parties to see that we broker peace; for peace to reign.”
Suleiman-Ibrahim expressed hope that this dialogue will lead to a positive resolution and ensure better cooperation between women and men in politics.