The wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has broken her silence on the controversy trailing the Nigerian Senate, stating that the chamber remains a “mature” institution that must be treated with respect.

Her remarks come amid allegations of sexual harassment against the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and abuse of power by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

Speaking to newsmen ahead of International Women’s Day, the First Lady dismissed concerns over the Senate’s handling of issues, insisting that the lawmakers are “doing what is needful.”

Senator Tinubu, who served in the Senate for 12 years, said the chamber should be a place of honour, not controversy.

She urged Nigerian women to assert themselves in leadership and not allow themselves to be sidelined.

She said, “I know with what is going on in the Senate, you may say, ‘Why am I not taking a position?’ I believe that the Senate is doing what is needful because that’s what it is. It is an enclosed place, and it’s a mature chamber.

“We shouldn’t be hearing things like that. It’s a mature chamber, and it should be treated with respect. It is an honour to be in that place.

“I was there for 12 years, even in my younger days, and I’m still trying to look young. People compliment you all the time, but women should raise themselves.

“Don’t be in a position where men will talk to you anyhow. You can always shut them down before they start.”

Meanwhile, ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8, the First Lady acknowledged the significant progress women have made over the decades, from the matriarchs of old to contemporary figures like Zuriel Oduwole, who champions peace.

Mrs. Tinubu stressed that Nigerian youths have what it takes to excel, urging women to continue to hold their heads high as they do their best.