Amnesty International has called on Nigerian authorities to immediately launch an independent and impartial investigation into allegations of sexual harassment made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio.
In a statement, Amnesty International stressed that the seriousness and scale of the allegations underscore the urgent need for a thorough and unbiased inquiry. The organization urged the National Assembly to address the matter promptly, warning that ignoring or trivializing the accusations would undermine justice and embolden perpetrators of sexual harassment.
“The failure to investigate these allegations will have far-reaching consequences, making it harder for survivors of sexual harassment to seek justice and allowing offenders to evade accountability,” Amnesty International stated.
The organization emphasized that this case presents an opportunity for Nigerian authorities to demonstrate a genuine commitment to eradicating sexual harassment, regardless of the individuals involved. It also warned that a culture of silence fueled by fear of disbelief and victim-blaming is discouraging women from coming forward.
“The tide of sexual impunity against women and girls must be turned now,” Amnesty International concluded.
