Senator Ireti Kingibe, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, has stressed the importance of adhering to Senate procedures while addressing the recent altercation between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio regarding seating arrangements.
During an interview on Arise TV, Kingibe expressed disapproval of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s actions, stating that her approach disregarded Senate regulations.
She mentioned that the other three female senators chose not to comment publicly, preferring to avoid making negative statements about their colleague.
“As women, we decided to remain silent because we didn’t want to criticize her openly, believing the issue would naturally fade away, as many do,” Kingibe explained.
She dismissed the dispute over seating as unnecessary, emphasizing that the Senate is not a place for such conflicts.
She also pointed out that Akpoti-Uduaghan was not the only senator whose seat was changed, as several male lawmakers experienced the same.
Although she acknowledged that the Senate has not always been accommodating to women, Kingibe noted that conditions have improved over time.
She added that when concerns are raised, the Senate President often takes corrective measures.
However, she maintained that the challenges female senators face are not significantly different from those experienced by their male counterparts.
Kingibe urged women to respect institutional rules, emphasizing that following procedures is essential for maintaining order in any legislative body.
(Prompt news)