The Federal Government announced its intention to intervene in the National Assembly’s leadership crisis following the suspension of a senator from Kogi Central Senatorial District. The Minister of Women Affairs emphasized the need for justice tempered with mercy in the situation. The senator was suspended for submitting a petition alleging sexual harassment by the Senate President. The minister stressed the importance of maintaining the number of women in the Senate and working towards peace and reconciliation.
A coalition of women’s groups rejected the suspension, considering it an attack on democracy and an attempt to silence women in leadership. They threatened to organize a protest if the decision was not reversed. Various associations and individuals expressed concerns over the suspension, demanding a fair hearing for the senator and highlighting challenges faced by women in leadership roles.
Supporters of the senator initiated a petition calling for the Senate President to step down for investigation, garnering over 13,000 signatures. On the other hand, some kinsmen of the Senate President suggested that the senator should be recalled by her constituents as they believed her actions denigrated the Senate.
Overall, the situation surrounding the suspension of the senator has sparked debates and calls for justice, fairness, and respect for women in leadership positions.