Oluremi Tinubu breaks silence over Natasha’s sexual harassment allegations

• The controversy began on February 20 with Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan discussing upper legislative chamber seating arrangements, with Akpoti-Uduaghan alleging her troubles began after rejecting Akpabio’s sexual advances.

• Akpoti-Uduaghan’s sexual harassment petition against Akpabio was rejected by the senate ethics committee due to due process and legal limitations. Mrs. Tinubu believes the senate is taking necessary steps.

Oluremi Tinubu, the wife of Nigeria’s President, has commented on the sexual harassment claims brought forth by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

The dispute originated on February 20, when Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan had a contentious exchange regarding seating arrangements in the Senate. Following this, Akpoti-Uduaghan alleged that her difficulties began after she rebuffed Akpabio’s sexual propositions.

Akpoti-Uduaghan filed a sexual harassment complaint against Akpabio; however, the Senate committee on ethics and privileges dismissed it, citing procedural and legal constraints. In remarks made prior to International Women’s Day, Mrs. Tinubu conveyed her confidence that the Senate is taking appropriate measures to address the allegations.

She underscored the importance of maintaining the Senate chamber as a space of dignity rather than discord. Mrs. Tinubu also encouraged Nigerian women to assert their presence in leadership positions and resist marginalization.

Reflecting on her own twelve years of experience as a senator, she urged women to advocate for themselves and to confront disrespect proactively.

“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.” she said.

“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 recognized the considerable advancements women have achieved over the years, from historical matriarchs to modern advocates like Zuriel Oduwole, who promotes peace.

Mrs. Tinubu further remarked that Nigerian youth possess the potential to succeed, encouraging women to hold their heads high and continue their endeavors.

She recognized the advancements women have achieved and urged them to persist in their pursuit of excellence.