Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory, has pledged to lead efforts for a thorough investigation into the sexual harassment allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Kingibe made this commitment in a statement shared on her official X account on Friday, titled “My Unwavering Stance for Justice, and Women’s Rights.” This development comes two weeks after she criticized Akpoti-Uduaghan’s public reaction to a Senate seating rearrangement, saying the issue could have been handled through internal procedures.
However, in her Friday statement, Kingibe clarified her position, stating she had been unaware of the harassment claims at the time of her earlier comments.
She stated, “First, I would like to assure Nigerians that I will be at the forefront to champion the sexual harassment case involving my colleague, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan when the investigation comes to the red chamber.
“I am aware of the narrative that has been going around, and to set the record straight, my actions were not to undermine her claims, but to buttress that I was not aware in the first place of any such happenings. Notwithstanding, I remain steadfast in the fight against all forms of violence against girls and women.”
Kingibe emphasized that if a sexual harassment complaint is officially brought to the Senate, it must be handled with diligence and integrity through the proper investigative channels.
“It’s in this capacity that I am demanding an open, transparent and fair investigation into the allegations of sexual harassment. Justice, fairness and equity must be provided for everyone regardless of gender, position or social class,” she added.
The senator reaffirmed her dedication to truth and equality, highlighting her ongoing work to promote gender representation in politics, including her advocacy for the 35% Gender Inclusion Bill and the creation of special seats for women in governance.
“I would like, therefore, to assure Nigerians, especially women, my Obidient political family and my FCT Constituents that I remain focused on delivering good governance even amid daunting challenges, that a new Nigeria may prevail.
“Any disinformation trying to purport that I am sympathetic to sexual harassment of any kind, whether in the Senate or elsewhere, should be disregarded,” she concluded.
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