The Ministry of Women Affairs has pledged to intervene in the ongoing dispute between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central to facilitate a peaceful resolution.
The verbal clash between the two lawmakers led to disciplinary action, culminating in Senator Natasha’s six-month suspension over alleged misconduct and violation of Senate Rules.
Speaking in Abuja during the Meet the Press programme, the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, stressed the importance of balancing justice with mercy to resolve the conflict. She affirmed that the ministry would act as a mediator, fostering dialogue to ensure reconciliation.
Low Representation of Women in Politics
Beyond the immediate dispute, the minister lamented the underrepresentation of women in Nigerian politics, stating that the situation must not be worsened by internal conflicts.
She expressed optimism that the Senate’s approach during this year’s International Women’s Day celebrations signals a willingness to mend relationships and create an enabling environment for female lawmakers.
The ministry’s intervention, she noted, is aimed at preventing further decline in female representation in the National Assembly while promoting a harmonious working relationship between male and female lawmakers.