Former Senator Ayodele Arise has sparked controversy with his comments on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Arise claims that “every beautiful woman is subject to sexual gestures anywhere in the world” and that Akpoti-Uduaghan should have handled the situation differently.
Arise’s statements have raised eyebrows, with many questioning his stance on sexual harassment. He went on to say that “even compliments like ‘you are beautiful’ and ‘you are gorgeous’ could be termed as sexual harassment.” This comment has been particularly criticized, as it seems to downplay the severity of sexual harassment.
The situation began when Akpoti-Uduaghan submitted a petition to the Senate, alleging that Akpabio had sexually harassed her. Akpabio denied the allegations, stating that he has “the highest regard for women” and urging Nigerians not to jump to conclusions.
The Senate has since suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months, citing multiple infractions against the Rules and Orders of the Senate. Arise has condemned the suspension, arguing that it deprives Akpoti-Uduaghan’s district of representation and that the punishment is too harsh.
The controversy has sparked a wider conversation about sexual harassment and women’s rights in Nigeria. Many women’s groups have come out in support of Akpoti-Uduaghan, condemning Arise’s comments and calling for greater accountability for those in power.