The Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Suleiman Ibrahim, has pledged to mediate in the ongoing dispute between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, was suspended from the Senate for six months on Thursday following recommendations by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct.
The committee cited her alleged violation of Senate rules as grounds for the suspension.
Speaking to State House correspondents after a press conference marking International Women’s Day, the minister expressed disappointment over the situation, calling it unfortunate.
“It’s an unfortunate incident that should not have happened. In the last Assembly, we had nine female senators. Now, we have only four. We don’t want to lose any more female representatives; rather, we want to increase our numbers,” she said.
Suleiman Ibrahim emphasized the need for reconciliation, stating that efforts were already underway to engage all stakeholders and encourage a fair resolution.
“We are working to broker peace. I was at the National Assembly yesterday for the International Women’s Day event, and the Senate President himself mentioned that they are open to reconciliation. We will serve as intermediaries between both parties to ensure that justice is tempered with mercy,” she added.
The minister also underscored the importance of collaboration between male and female lawmakers, calling for continued sensitization and unity within the legislature.
