Editorial: Condemning Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s High-Handedness and Disregard for Women in Leadership
As a publication committed to justice, equity, and the preservation of democratic values, CSR REPORTERS unequivocally condemns the alarming pattern of high-handedness displayed by Nigeria’s Senate President, Godswill Akpabio. His blatant disregard for opposition voices, particularly those of women in the Senate, is not only undemocratic but a direct affront to the principles of equality and respect that should define our political landscape.
A glaring instance of this troubling behavior was his recent altercation with Senator Natasha Uduaghan. Rather than allowing healthy debate and constructive dissent, Akpabio has taken an authoritarian stance, shutting down voices that challenge his authority. This suppression of opposition is not only an abuse of power but a betrayal of the very essence of democracy, which thrives on diverse opinions and robust deliberations.
This, however, is not an isolated incident. Akpabio’s history is tainted with similar acts of intimidation and dehumanization, particularly toward women. Nigerians will recall his tenure as Minister of the Niger Delta, where he was accused of demeaning the then Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). Her allegations of sexual harassment painted a disturbing picture of a man who appears to wield power as a tool for personal domination rather than public service.
The pattern is clear: Akpabio’s leadership seems to be marred by an unsettling animosity toward women in positions of power. In a country striving for gender inclusivity and equality, such behavior is not only regressive but outright unacceptable. Women leaders should be accorded the same level of respect as their male counterparts, and any leader who deliberately undermines their contributions must be held accountable.
As a publication, we call on Nigerians to rise and condemn this injustice. Silence in the face of oppression only emboldens tyrants. Civil society organizations, women’s rights groups, and all democracy-loving citizens must demand accountability from the Senate President. Leadership should be about inclusion, not suppression; about service, not self-aggrandizement.
The time to act is now. We must reject high-handedness in governance and insist on a Senate that embodies the true spirit of democracy—one where every voice, regardless of gender or political affiliation, is heard and respected.
