…Urges Nigerian Women to Carry Themselves With Dignity and Confidence
By Caroline Ameh
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has weighed in on recent sexual harassment allegations in the Senate, emphasizing that the chamber is a place of honor and maturity, not controversy.
Speaking at the State House in Abuja on Thursday as part of activities marking International Women’s Day, the First Lady dismissed concerns about the Senate’s handling of the issue, insisting that lawmakers are acting appropriately.
“I know with what is going on in the Senate, you’ll say, why am I not taking a position? I believe that the Senate is doing what is needful because that’s what it is. It’s a matured chamber, and it should be treated with respect,” she said.
Her remarks come amid allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and claims of abuse of power by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Having served in the Senate for 12 years, the First Lady stressed that the chamber should uphold its integrity and not be reduced to a platform for controversy.
Reflecting on her tenure, she called on Nigerian women to carry themselves with confidence and dignity, warning against situations that could expose them to disrespect.
“Women, raise yourselves. Don’t be in a position where men will talk to you in ways that are unacceptable. You can always shut them down before they start,” she advised.
Speaking on the progress made by Nigerian women since the 1995 Beijing Conference on gender equality, she praised female trailblazers, including young advocate Zuriel Oduwole, for making significant contributions on the international stage.
“Women, we’ve come a long way, even from all the matriarchs of old. They contributed, and up till now, women are doing phenomenal things,” she said.
She encouraged women to continue striving for excellence and asserting themselves in leadership roles, urging them to “keep doing what you know how to do, lifting your heads high.”
The First Lady concluded with a call for Nigerian women to embrace their potential, saying, “All the very best, and Happy International Women’s Day.”
