March 08, (THEWILL) – Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has expressed her commitment to mediating between the Senate leadership and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan following the latter’s six-month suspension over alleged misconduct and violation of Senate rules.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, was suspended on Thursday based on recommendations from the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions.
The suspension includes the withdrawal of her salary, security details, and access to the National Assembly premises.
Speaking at the Meet the Press briefing organised by the State House Media Unit on Friday, Sulaiman-Ibrahim emphasised the need for reconciliation, noting that her ministry would work towards a resolution that ensures justice while tempering it with mercy.
“It is unfortunate, and we do not want to lose any female lawmaker in the National Assembly again. We will engage all stakeholders to ensure that justice is tempered with mercy,” she stated.
The Minister highlighted the declining representation of women in the legislature, stressing the need for a collaborative political environment that bridges gender disparities.
She also disclosed that during the International Women’s Day event at the National Assembly on Thursday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio assured her of the Senate’s willingness to facilitate peace.
“I was at the Senate yesterday, where they marked International Women’s Day, and the Senate President’s last statement was that they are open to brokering peace. So, we will serve as an intermediary to ensure that peace reigns,” she added.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim reiterated her ministry’s commitment to fostering dialogue and strengthening the working relationship between male and female lawmakers to promote inclusivity in governance.
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