Suspended Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central), reignited discussions about gender dynamics and power struggles within Nigeria’s legislative chambers through a biting, satirical apology addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
In the letter, Akpoti-Uduaghan mockingly apologised for the “grievous crime” of maintaining dignity and self-respect in the Senate President’s presence.
Her remarks, dripping with irony, challenged systemic sexism and entitlement within the political sphere.
The senator’s letter, which has since gone viral, sarcastically referenced expectations of compliance, stating: “How remiss of me not to understand that my refusal to indulge your… ‘requests’ was not merely a personal choice but a constitutional violation of certain men’s entitlement.”
She further addressed systemic sexism, writing: “Please find it in your magnanimous heart — somewhere buried deep beneath layers of entitlement — to forgive this stubborn woman who mistakenly believed that her seat in the Senate was earned through elections, not erections.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s unapologetic tone highlighted the challenges faced by women in politics, particularly in navigating power dynamics and entrenched patriarchal attitudes.
Her remarks have sparked widespread debate, with supporters praising her courage and critics questioning the appropriateness of her approach.
The senator’s letter also criticised the perceived prioritisation of personal interests over legislative competence, stating: “I must apologise for prioritising competence over capitulation, vision over vanity, and the people’s mandate over private dinners behind closed doors.”
She mockingly acknowledged the “catastrophic consequences” of her actions, including delayed legislation and bruised egos, further fuelling discussions about the balance of power and accountability within Nigeria’s Senate.
JUST IN: Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has written a satirical apology letter” to Senate President Godswill Akpabio. pic.twitter.com/6PYrEswnnN
— Nigeria Stories (@NigeriaStories) April 27, 2025
