By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has expressed serious concerns regarding the treatment of female lawmakers in the National Assembly, with particular emphasis on the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

The organisation called for her reinstatement, describing the suspension as a matter requiring urgent review.

In a statement on Thursday, CHRICED highlighted instances where female senators felt their concerns were not adequately addressed.

The statement was signed by the Executive Director of CHRICED, Comrade (Dr.) Ibrahim Zikirullahi, who emphasised the importance of accountability and gender equality within Nigeria’s political landscape.

CHRICED urged the Senate to review its protocols to ensure fair treatment of all members and to promote gender equality.

While reaffirming its commitment to advocating for social inclusion, the rights group called on leaders to cultivate a respectful and inclusive environment in governance.

The statement reads: “We have been closely monitoring the actions and leadership within the Nigerian Senate, particularly in relation to the treatment of the four female senators among a total of 109.

“We express our profound concern regarding the consistently disrespectful and dismissive behaviour exhibited towards female colleagues, while other senators remain silent.

“The recent and expedited suspension of Distinguished Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan represents yet another instance of the ongoing violation of the rights of women senators to express themselves.

“CHRICED categorically rejects the justification provided for this suspension and demands her immediate and unconditional reinstatement to the Senate.

“CHRICED applauds Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for her bravery in addressing harassment and her refusal to remain silent in a predominantly male-dominated Senate.

“Her actions not only highlight the challenges faced by women in political arenas but also serve as a source of hope and motivation for women globally who have encountered similar difficulties.

“It is utterly shameful that this injustice against Senator Natasha occurred during the week of International Women’s Day, coinciding with the sacred month of Ramadan.

“The dismissive and disrespectful attitudes towards women underscore the significant challenges they face in our political landscape.

“This situation is particularly alarming in a country where women occupy only four out of 109 Senate seats in the 10th National Assembly. The 35% affirmative action policy aims to ensure that women hold 35% of governance positions; however, this goal remains largely unachieved in Nigeria due to numerous obstacles faced by women in pursuing political roles.

“Consequently, CHRICED demands the immediate reinstatement of Senator Natasha to the Senate, along with a public apology to all female senators within the Nigerian Senate.

“Moreover, CHRICED calls upon the Nigerian Senate to implement protocols that prevent such behaviour from being tolerated in the future within the upper chamber of the National Assembly.

“CHRICED stands in solidarity with all women who have experienced discrimination and disrespect in the workplace. It is crucial that we strive to create a more inclusive and respectful environment for all, regardless of gender.”