A group, Women For Change Vanguard on Friday took their protests to the United Nations office in Abuja where they called on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to present evidence that she was sexually harassed by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio.
The maintained that their peaceful protest was not merely about demanding justice, it was also about holding both parties accountable.
It noted that this was not the first time Natasha has made serious allegations a prominent figure.
It added that such actions risk becoming a weapon she wields against men in power, undermining the core principles of our fight against sexual violence.
TheHintsNews reports that Akpoti-Udughan recent accused Akpabio of sexual harassment. The Senate subsequently suspended the Kogi-born senator.
However, the leader of the group, Irene Imor said in the the past few weeks, Akpabio had faced significant reputational damage due to unsubstantiated allegations of sexual harassment made by his colleague.
She said: “As we stand at a critical juncture in our fight against sexual misconduct, the allegations made by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senator Akpabio raise serious concerns that necessitate thorough scrutiny.
“It is important to remember that in any allegation of misconduct, the burden of proof lies with the accuser.
“If Senator Natasha claims to have been a victim of sexual harassment, we urge her to come forth with credible evidence to support her accusations. The gravity of such claims demands accountability.
“We are particularly troubled by the growing trend of misusing the #BelieveAll Women mantra, which can inadvertently shield unfounded accusations against men.”
“As mothers and members of the Women for Change Vanguard, we are acutely aware of the implications of false accusations. Such claims not only harm the accused but also diminish the experiences of genuine survivors.
“We call on Senator Natasha to provide concrete evidence of her claims against Senator Godswill Akpabio. Should credible evidence be presented, we will stand firm in our commitment to ensuring that justice is served.
“Akpabio must have the opportunity to clear his name, while Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan must evidence that she was sexually abused,” she added.
