Delta State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Orode Uduaghan, has broken her silence on the controversial Senate suspension of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, sparking debates about gender dynamics in Nigerian politics.
The Controversy Explained
On Thursday, March 5, 2025, Uduaghan—daughter of former Delta Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan—hinted at future revelations about her journey as a woman in politics. In an Instagram post, she shared a clip of Cross River lawmaker Cletus Obun controversially suggesting “mental stability tests” for women aspiring to governorship or senate roles.
Captioning the clip “#WomenInPolitics. One day I will set a ring light and microphone,” Uduaghan’s cryptic message coincided with the Senate suspension of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a PDP senator accused of breaching parliamentary rules after alleging s3xual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Senate suspension of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
The Senate disciplinary committee imposed a six-month suspension on Akpoti-Uduaghan, citing procedural violations. Critics argue the punishment reflects systemic bias against women in leadership, while supporters claim due process was followed. For context, review Senate disciplinary procedures.
Orode Uduaghan Stance & Social Media Reactions
Orode Uduaghan post, tagged “International Women’s Month. Lol,” drew mixed responses:
- @Chioma_NG: “Women face double standards in politics. Proud of Uduaghan for speaking up!”
- @PoliticalAnalyst: “The Senate must address harassment claims of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan transparently.”
As Commissioner for Girl Child Development, Uduaghan’s advocacy aligns with her vow to spotlight challenges faced by women in governance.
Broader Implications for Women in Politics
- Accountability vs. Bias: Are female lawmakers held to harsher standards?
- Mental Health Stigma: Obun’s “stability test” remark fuels gender stereotypes.
- Representation: Nigeria ranks low in global gender parity indices (UN Women Report).
Uduaghan’s promise to “set a ring light” hints at plans to amplify women’s voices through media—a potential game-changer for grassroots advocacy.
What’s Next?
- Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan: Her suspension raises questions about whistleblower protections.
- Orode Uduaghan: Follow her Instagram for updates on her #WomenInPolitics series.
- Senate: Calls grow for reforms to ensure fairness in disciplinary processes.
