First Lady Tinubu Defends Senate Amid Sexual Harassment Allegations

The First Lady, Mrs Remi Tinubu, has addressed the controversy surrounding the 10th Senate over alleged sexual harassment, saying the Red Chamber remains a “matured” institution that must be treated with respect.

Her comments come amid allegations of sexual harassment and abuse of power against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

Speaking to journalists ahead of the International Women’sFirst Lady Tinubu Defends Senate Amid Sexual Harassment Allegations Day (IWD), Mrs Tinubu dismissed concerns over the Senate’s handling of the matter, insisting that lawmakers were “doing what is needful.”

She said the Senate should be a place of honour, not controversy, and urged Nigerian women to assert themselves in leadership roles.

“I know with what is going on in the Senate, you may say, why am I not taking oppositions? I believe that the Senate is doing what is needful, because that’s what it is. Is an inside place and it’s a matured chambers.

“We shouldn’t be hearing things like that. It’s a matured chamber, and it should be treated with respect. It’s an honour for you to be in that place alone.

“I was there for 12 years, even in my younger days, and I’m still trying to look young, but people compliment you all the time only that, women raise yourself, don’t be in a position that men will be talking to you anyhow. You can always shut them down before they start.”

Ahead of International Women’s Day on 8 March, Mrs Tinubu celebrated the resilience and achievements of Nigerian women, acknowledging their progress over the years.

She praised figures such as Zuriel Oduwole, who has championed peace, and said Nigerian youths have the potential to excel.

She urged women to continue striving for success.