Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has taken her case to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) after being suspended from the Nigerian Senate. The IPU is a group that represents parliaments from 181 countries.
She says her suspension is unfair and happened because she spoke out against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of sexual harassment.
What Happened?
- On March 6, Senator Natasha was suspended for six months.
- She had submitted a petition asking for an investigation into Senator Akpabio.
- Instead of investigating, the Senate removed her from office and placed strict rules on her.
Her Suspension Rules:
- No salary for six months.
- Her security and staff were taken away.
- She cannot enter the National Assembly.
- She is not allowed to call herself a Senator during the suspension.
Senator Natasha says this is a big problem for women in politics. There are only four women out of 109 Senators, which means women have very little representation in Nigeria’s government.
What Is She Fighting For?
She wants:
- A fair investigation into her complaint.
- The right to speak out without being punished.
- More protection for women in politics and government.
Many people believe her suspension is an abuse of power, and she hopes the Inter-Parliamentary Union will help bring justice.
