Amnesty International Nigeria has called on authorities to urgently investigate allegations of sexual harassment leveled by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The organization’s director, Isa Sanusi, has stressed the need for an independent and impartial inquiry, highlighting concerns over the government’s inaction on such serious claims.
The failure to investigate, Sanusi warns, sends a troubling message about the state’s commitment to justice, reinforcing a culture where survivors of sexual harassment struggle to be heard. He emphasizes that the National Assembly cannot afford to turn a blind eye while the allegations remain unaddressed.
Beyond this specific case, the broader implications of ignoring sexual harassment claims are alarming. Sanusi points out that without accountability, a dangerous precedent is set—one that discourages survivors from coming forward and emboldens perpetrators. The reluctance to investigate, he argues, fuels a system where sexual misconduct is trivialized, making justice an uphill battle for many.
Amnesty International insists that the authorities must seize this moment to demonstrate a firm stance against sexual harassment. By launching a transparent investigation, the government has the chance to reaffirm its commitment to protecting human rights and ensuring that no individual, regardless of status, is above scrutiny. The fight against impunity, particularly for women and girls facing harassment, must begin with decisive action at the highest levels.
