Use suspension period to seek therapy, women group tells Natasha

The Nigerian Women Crusade for Good Governance (NWCGG) has called on suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to use her time away from the Senate for self-reflection and professional therapy.

The group also tendered an unreserved apology to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the Nigerian Senate over what it described as unfounded allegations made by Natasha.

Addressing a media briefing in Abuja on Tuesday on behalf of the coalition, Dr. Cecilia Ikechukwu condemned the senator’s conduct, labeling it as disruptive, crude, and distasteful.

The Senate had last week suspended Natasha for six months after she submitted a petition alleging she had been sexually harassed by the Senate President.

Ikechukwu noted that Natasha’s actions had embarrassed Nigerian women and undermined the efforts of female politicians who have worked to build public trust.

The group also accused the senator of having a history of blackmailing men in power and using false allegations for political relevance.

It urged Natasha to study the Senate rules during her six-month suspension to better understand legislative procedures.

The group said: “We strongly urge Senator Natasha to use this time to seek professional therapy. It is evident that she is struggling with deep-seated issues that need to be addressed if she is to function properly in any leadership capacity.

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“Furthermore, she must take this opportunity to read and understand the Senate rules so that upon her return, she can comport herself with the dignity and respect befitting her office.

“Evidently, Natasha Akpoti has not only disgraced herself but has set back the cause of women in politics by reinforcing negative stereotypes about female leaders.

“However, her actions must not define us. We must continue to prove that women in governance are capable, respectable, and deserving of leadership positions. It is our hope that she will use this period of suspension to rebuild her character and emerge as a more responsible and respectful leader.

“Nevertheless, we also emphasize that this incident must not be allowed to overshadow the progress that many great women have made in Nigerian politics.

“There are countless women who have served with distinction and have never stopped inspiring future generations. Women in public offices must understand that the position comes with a duty to inspire and not to embarrass. We must not allow the actions of one individual to define the collective achievements of women in leadership.

“Finally, we call on all Nigerians to remain steadfast in their support for good governance and to hold their leaders accountable for their actions. May this unfortunate episode serve as a lesson on the importance of character, maturity, and responsible leadership. Together, we can build a nation that values integrity, respect, and equality for all.”