In an emotional moment that captured global attention, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central broke into tears while recounting her ordeal in the Nigerian Senate during the Women in Parliament session at the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
Addressing an audience of female parliamentarians and global policymakers, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan described her recent suspension from the Nigerian Senate as an "illegal act of suppression," alleging that it was a deliberate attempt to silence her. She called for urgent intervention from international democratic institutions, warning that her political struggles reflected deeper threats to gender equality and democracy in Nigeria.
The Nigerian Senate had suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan on March 6, 2025, for six months, citing violations of Senate rules, including speaking without recognition and making what it termed "abusive remarks" against the leadership. The suspension came shortly after she publicly accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual assault, a claim Akpabio has since denied.
Struggling to hold back tears, the Kogi lawmaker spoke about the hostile political climate she faces and expressed fears for her safety. She claimed that powerful figures in Nigeria might retaliate against her, even suggesting that she could be detained while in New York. Her passionate plea resonated with fellow female lawmakers, many of whom condemned any form of intimidation or suppression of women in governance.
The IPU meeting at the United Nations Headquarters is a crucial forum where female parliamentarians from around the world share experiences, discuss challenges, and strategize on advancing gender equality and women's rights in governance. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s address has now placed Nigeria’s legislative crisis on the global stage, raising critical questions about democratic governance, human rights, and the treatment of female politicians in the country.
Her speech was met with a standing ovation from delegates, reinforcing international solidarity for her cause. Observers believe this development could mount pressure on Nigeria’s political leadership to review her suspension and address the broader concerns of gender-based discrimination in politics.
The unfolding situation continues to generate widespread reactions, with many Nigerians and democracy advocates closely watching the next steps in this high-stakes political battle.
 Meeting Held at United Nations Headquarters in New York.){kind=link}