‘Sexual Harassment’: Remi Tinubu backs senate over Natasha’s allegation

Nigeria’s First Lady, Mrs. Remi Tinubu, has reacted to the ongoing controversy surrounding the 10th Senate amid allegations of sexual harassment, stating that the Senate remains a “matured” institution deserving of respect.

Her comments come in the wake of sexual harassment and abuse of power accusations made against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

Speaking to journalists ahead of International Women’s Day (IWD), Mrs. Tinubu dismissed concerns over the Senate’s handling of the matter, emphasizing that lawmakers were “doing what is needful.”

She noted that the Senate should be a place of honor, not controversy, and encouraged Nigerian women to assert themselves in leadership positions.

“I know with what is going on in the Senate, you may say, why am I not taking oppositions? I believe that the Senate is doing what is needful, because that’s what it is. Is an inside place and it’s a matured chambers.

“We shouldn’t be hearing things like that. It’s a matured chamber, and it should be treated with respect. It’s an honour for you to be in that place alone.

“I was there for 12 years, even in my younger days, and I’m still trying to look young, but people compliment you all the time only that, women raise yourself, don’t be in a position that men will be talking to you anyhow. You can always shut them down before they start.”

She acknowledged the significant progress women have made over the decades, from the matriarchs of old to contemporary figures like Zuriel Oduwole, who champions peace.