Kingibe claims Natasha misunderstood Senate seating, recalls her hotel meeting with Akpabio
The recent controversy surrounding the seating arrangement in the Nigerian Senate has drawn recent attention, particularly regarding the interactions between Senators Ireti Kingibe and Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Senator Kingibe has publicly stated that she believes Natasha was incorrect in her handling of the situation related to the seating reassignment.
According to Kingibe, adherence to Senate rules is paramount, and deviations from these rules can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts within the legislative body.
During an interview, Kingibe emphasized that the issue of seating arrangements is not unique to Natasha; other lawmakers have also experienced similar changes.
She pointed out that on the day of the incident, several male senators were moved as well, indicating that this practice is a standard procedure rather than a targeted action against any individual senator.
Allegations of misconduct
In addition to discussing the seating arrangement, Kingibe addressed allegations made by Natasha regarding sexual harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
While Natasha claimed that Akpabio had made inappropriate advances towards her, Kingibe distanced herself from these allegations.
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She noted that she does not have a close relationship with Akpabio and thus cannot comment on personal matters between him and Natasha.
Kingibe however recounted an instance where Natasha mentioned meeting Akpabio in a hotel setting.
Kingibe said she advised Natasha against such meetings outside official settings, reinforcing her belief in adhering to institutional norms.
Female Senators’ solidarity
Despite the tensions arising from this incident, Kingibe expressed a sense of solidarity among female senators. She acknowledged that while there are challenges related to gender dynamics within the Senate, improvements have been made over time.
The other female senators have chosen not to publicly criticize Natasha’s actions, opting instead for silence in hopes that tensions would dissipate naturally.
Kingibe articulated that their silence should not be misconstrued as complicity but rather as a strategic choice aimed at preserving unity among women in politics. She underscored that it is essential for all members of the Senate, regardless of gender, to follow established rules and protocols.
