The National Assembly of Nigeria has been marred by controversy, with allegations of sexual harassment, tear gas, and paid protesters stripping the institution of its dignity.
Feud Between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio
At the center of the chaos is a bitter feud between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The crisis erupted after Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, first on national television and then in an open plenary session.
Reactions and Condemnation
Veteran journalist Reuben Abati described the moment as “a pivotal moment” that exposed the National Assembly to global ridicule. Abati stated, “It was a pivotal moment for the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria… For the first time since our return to democracy in 1999, we have the chairman of the National Assembly… being accused in open plenary of sexual harassment.”
Protests and Counter-Protests
Outside, the streets of Abuja turned into a marketplace of loyalty, where poverty was weaponized to fuel rival protests. Viral videos revealed the farce, with protesters openly admitting they were unaware of the details surrounding the feud.
A Hollow Demonstration
In one clip, a female interviewer confronted a protester supporting Akpabio, asking, “Why are you supporting Senator Akpabio?” The woman hesitated before replying, “Yes, I didn’t see anything wrong with what they are saying. But I don’t know much about the details.” When pressed further, the Akpabio supporter admitted, “I don’t really know the whole story.”
Consequences and Implications
The National Assembly’s descent into chaos has raised questions about the integrity of Nigeria’s lawmakers. As the nation watches, it remains to be seen how this drama will unfold and what consequences will arise from the allegations of sexual harassment and the shameful display of sponsored protests.