Federal Government Intervenes: Peace Talks Begin Over Controversial Suspension OF Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan

During a press briefing at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Friday, the Minister of Women Affairs, Iman Suleiman-Ibrahim, revealed that efforts were underway to appeal for leniency and restore peace. “We are engaging with all stakeholders to ensure that justice is tempered with mercy,” she stated during the Meet-the-Press programme.

Her comments came just a day after the Senate imposed a six-month suspension on Akpoti-Uduaghan for allegedly bringing the Senate into disrepute.

Background of the Suspension:

The controversy began when Akpoti-Uduaghan submitted a petition claiming sexual harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. However, the Senate dismissed the petition on procedural grounds and forwarded the case to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, which recommended her suspension. The committee argued that Akpoti-Uduaghan had embarrassed the Senate, leading to her suspension.

Minister’s Response:

Suleiman-Ibrahim expressed regret over the incident, emphasizing the importance of maintaining female representation in the Senate. “It’s an unfortunate situation that should not have occurred. In the last assembly, we had nine female senators. We cannot afford to lose any woman member or see a reduction in numbers,” she said.

The Minister also reaffirmed the government’s dedication to promoting dialogue and achieving a peaceful resolution.