By Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, has dismissed recent sexual harassment allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, calling such accusations a “sign of weakness.”
Speaking on the controversy, Ita-Giwa argued that once a woman becomes a Senator, she is no longer vulnerable to sexual harassment, as the position itself comes with power and authority.
Her remarks were a direct response to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claim that Akpabio blocked her attempts to raise motions on the Ajaokuta Steel Company after she rejected his alleged sexual advances.
Ita-Giwa said female lawmakers must learn to handle issues head-on instead of presenting themselves as victims, stressing that women in powerful positions should stand firm rather than resort to public accusations.
The former lawmaker’s comments have sparked mixed reactions, with some seeing them as outdated and dismissive, while others view them as tough advice from a political veteran.
As the fallout continues, the allegations and Ita-Giwa’s response are expected to fuel further debate about power dynamics, gender politics, and accountability within Nigeria’s National Assembly.
