First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has weighed in on the ongoing controversy between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and suspended Kogi Central lawmaker, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
In her remarks, Tinubu emphasized that the Senate remains a “matured institution” that should be treated with respect, stating that the legislative chamber is handling matters appropriately.
Her comments were made while speaking with journalists at the State House in Abuja and were also contained in a statement released on Thursday, March 6, by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi.
“The First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, says the Nigerian Senate remains a ‘matured’ institution that must be treated with respect,” the statement read.
Tinubu’s remarks come in the wake of allegations of sexual harassment and abuse of power leveled against Senate President Akpabio by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The controversy has drawn widespread public attention, with many calling for transparency in addressing the accusations.
While refraining from taking a definitive stance, Tinubu expressed confidence in the ability of the Senate to resolve the matter, insisting that lawmakers are “doing what is needful.”
“I know with what is going on in the Senate, you may say, why am I not taking a position? I believe that the Senate is doing what is needful because that’s what it is. It is an inside place, and it’s a matured chamber. It’s a matured chamber, and it should be treated with respect. It’s an honour for you to be in that place alone,” she stated.
Tinubu, who served as a senator for 12 years, further urged Nigerian women to assert themselves in leadership roles and not allow themselves to be undermined.
“Ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8, the First Lady celebrated the achievements of women across the globe, particularly in Nigeria.
She acknowledged the progress made over the decades, from the matriarchs of old to contemporary figures like Zuriel Oduwole, who champions peace.”