The lawmaker for Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, voiced her frustration on Thursday over reportedly being sidelined from Senate activities.
Speaking bitterly at the floor of the Senate during the budget defence of the Committee on Women Affairs, Natasha accused the Committee Chairman, Ireti Kingibe, of sidelining her from certain committee activities.
She questioned the lack of unity and coordination among female senators regarding a significant global women’s event, highlighting her alienation from the process.
The lawmaker noted the limited female representation in the Senate, raising a concern regarding an invitation to attend the UN’s Commission on the State of Women, CSW, event in New York.
According to the senator, she was informed of the invitation and was told to provide her passport for processing.
She said despite responding within three hours, she was later told by the Ministry of Women Affairs that she could no longer attend due to a late response.
“I was only informed about the event yesterday at 1:00 pm, and I immediately responded with my passport. Despite my prompt response, I was subsequently told that I responded too late and would not be attending.
“I should not be treated differently from other women, especially concerning an event focused on the betterment of women,” Natasha said.
