Kingibe emphasised that her previous comments were not meant to undermine Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims but to highlight her initial lack of awareness of the allegations.
Sen. Ireti Kingibe (LP, FCT), has vowed to champion the sexual harassment allegations raised by Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi central).
As the Chair of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, Kingibe has called for a thorough and impartial investigation into the matter.
In a statement posted on her official X handle, titled “My Unwavering Stance for Justice and Women’s Rights,” Kingibe reaffirmed her commitment to addressing gender-based violence.
Her stance comes two weeks after she criticised Akpoti-Uduaghan over her reaction to a senate seating reassignment, stating on Arise TV that the senator should have followed due process rather than escalating the matter.
Parliament Reports recalls that Akpoti-Uduaghan recently accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of making inappropriate advances toward her during a visit to his home in Akwa Ibom State.
Her claims emerged following a heated dispute with Akpabio over changes to her seating arrangement in the Senate.
Clarifying her position, Kingibe emphasised that her previous comments were not meant to undermine Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims but to highlight her initial lack of awareness of the allegations.
However, she assured Nigerians that she would be at the forefront of ensuring justice once the case is formally brought before the senate.
“As a sitting senator, I will always defend the truth and fight to right all wrongs. Over the years, sexual harassment and assaults have become commonplace in our homes and workplaces. Every Nigerian, irrespective of gender, ethnicity, or religion, should be committed to the struggle to end it as it affects all genders.”
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She stressed the need for an open, transparent, and fair investigation within the senate, ensuring justice is served without bias.
She said, “I align with the global community in advocating for increased gender equity in political representation and across all sectors of our society. To this end, I am focused on advancing the 35% Gender Inclusion Bill and the establishment of special seats for women to ensure greater participation of women in governance.
“The Gender Equity Bill 2025, SB 743, which I am pushing, has passed the first reading and is now awaiting the second reading. I remain resolute in my service to the Nigerian people, undeterred by falsehoods, and committed to fostering a democracy where justice, fairness, and equity prevail.”
Addressing misinformation, she urged Nigerians to disregard any attempts to misrepresent her stance, stating, “Any disinformation trying to purport that I am sympathetic to sexual harassment of any kind, whether in the Senate or elsewhere, should be disregarded.”
