…Says reinstatement is triumph for democracy, gender justice
Womanifesto, a coalition of over 300 women’s rights groups and civil society organisations across the country, has hailed the reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to the Nigerian Senate, describing it as a landmark victory for constitutional democracy, judicial integrity, and gender justice.
In a statement signed by its Convener, Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, the group said the development followed over six months of what it termed an “unlawful and unjust exclusion” of the lawmaker, adding that her return represents more than personal vindication, but a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey and a test case for the inclusion of women in governance.
“This is a hard-won victory,” Akiyode-Afolabi said.
“It is a testament to the resilience of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, her constituents, and countless Nigerians who refused to remain silent in the face of systemic injustice,” she added.
The statement condemned what it described as the deliberate defiance of court orders and the disenfranchisement of the Senator’s constituents, stating that her exclusion was a targeted attempt to silence a vocal female lawmaker.
According to the group, the Senate’s failure to obey judicial directives did not only violate the Constitution but also set a dangerous precedent for gender equity and rule of law.
“The exclusion sent a chilling message to Nigerian women: you can win elections, earn your seat, and still be shut out. Her return sends a louder message back: you cannot silence us,” the statement read.
While welcoming the Senator’s reinstatement, Womanifesto insisted that the incident must not be treated as a footnote, but should instead serve as a catalyst for urgent reforms within Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The group called on the Federal Government to ensure full accountability for those who orchestrated and sustained the unlawful suspension of the Senator, noting that the National Assembly’s defiance of court orders constitutes an abuse of power that must be addressed publicly and legally.
It also urged the National Assembly to adopt safeguards to prevent the arbitrary suspension of elected lawmakers, especially on grounds seen to be politically or gender-motivated.
The group further charged Nigerians to remain vigilant and vocal in defending the principles of justice, democracy, and the separation of powers, reminding citizens that ultimate power rests with the people.
To the International Community, Womanifesto called for stronger diplomatic pressure on Nigeria to uphold its constitutional and treaty-based obligations, and to increase support for women facing institutional and political resistance.
Womanifesto warned that while the Senator’s return is significant, it should not mark the end of the advocacy for justice and equity.
“The fight for justice is not concluded with her reinstatement,” the statement read. “True victory will come when no constituency is ever again left voiceless due to political manipulation; when no woman is punished for daring to lead; and when court rulings are never treated as optional.”
The group reaffirmed its commitment to a Nigeria where women’s voices are not just heard, but respected, and where the Constitution is upheld in both letter and spirit.
“Democracy lives when we hold the powerful to account. Democracy thrives when women lead, unapologetically and without fear,” the statement concluded.
