Politics
Group Tasks Senate On Fairness To Female Members
The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has called for fair and respectful treatment of female senators in the Nigerian Senate, emphasising the need for inclusivity and gender equity in governance.
The organisation expressed concern over the recent suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, urging for her immediate reinstatement.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Ibrahim Zikirullahi, CHRICED highlighted the importance of fostering an environment where all Senators, regardless of gender, can effectively contribute to national development.
The organisation stressed that the presence of only four female senators out of 109 underscores the urgent need for greater representation and respect for women in leadership roles.
“The suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan raises concerns about the space for women’s voices in the Senate. It is vital that all senators are given equal opportunities to express their views and represent their constituents effectively,” the statement read.
CHRICED also referenced previous instances where female senators had voiced concerns about being sidelined in key legislative discussions. It noted that ensuring equal participation for all lawmakers is essential for strengthening democracy and governance in Nigeria.
“It is a travesty of democracy and a disgrace to the esteemed chamber of the Senate that such a gross injustice could occur against Senator Natasha simply for daring to reveal her experience of harassment. This development sends a discouraging message to women aspiring to participate in governance,” CHRICED stated.
The organisation further pointed out that Senator Ireti Kingibe, the only representative of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the Senate, had previously expressed dissatisfaction over her exclusion from important legislative discussions.
“Rather than addressing Senator Ireti’s concerns, the Senate President directed the FCT Minister to ignore what he termed ‘distractions,’’ CHRICED noted.
CHRICED condemned the treatment meted to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, asserting that the timing of her suspension—occurring shortly after controversial remarks about her—suggests a premeditated agenda.
The organisation also critiqued the broader implications of the suspension, arguing that it could deter women from seeking leadership positions in governance.
“Even the few women who manage to overcome the barriers to political participation often face harassment, silencing, and marginalisation. The suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti and the silence of her fellow Senate members only serve to deepen these challenges,” CHRICED warned.
Regarding the significance of the issue, the organisation emphasised that the 35 per cent affirmative action policy aimed at increasing women’s representation in governance has largely gone unfulfilled.
“The political space remains difficult for women, and incidents like this make it even harder to promote gender equity in leadership,” the organisation stated.
The statement also recalled previous concerns raised by women’s groups regarding political leadership.
In its commitment to gender equality and social inclusion, CHRICED reaffirmed its dedication to advocating for policies that support inclusivity in governance and urged all political leaders to work towards a Senate where mutual respect and collaboration guide decision-making for the benefit of all Nigerians.
“Women in leadership roles must be able to perform their responsibilities without fear of harassment, belittlement, or disrespect. It is essential that the Nigerian Senate upholds the principles of justice, fairness, and accountability,” the statement added.
Politics
Alleged Coup: Protests Rock N’Assembly As Detained Officers’ Children, Wives Demand Justice
Scores of children and wives of military officers detained over an alleged coup plot yesterday staged a peaceful protest at the National Assembly, demanding a speedy trial and the release of the accused officials.
The protesters who gathered at the entrance of the National Assembly complex, moved in a slow procession while clutching placards with inscriptions such as “Don’t Kill Our Daddies,” “Detention Without Trial is Injustice,” and “Six Months of Torture: Enough Is Enough.”
Amid tears and trembling voices, the children appealed for justice and access to their detained fathers, many of whom they said they had not seen for months.
The appeal was made during a press briefing in Abuja attended by no fewer than 20 wives and several children of the detained officers, including a two-month-old baby.
The families were accompanied by human rights lawyer, Deji Adeyanju and activist Omoyele Sowore.
At the briefing, the families lamented that the officers had been held for over 160 days without trial or contact with their relatives, describing the situation as a violation of their fundamental rights.
Speaking on behalf of the families, Memuna Bashiru said the prolonged detention had thrown their households into uncertainty and emotional distress, noting that while allegations had been widely publicised, families remained in the dark about the fate of their loved ones.
The arrest of the indicted officers was first announced on October 4, 2025, by the then Director of Defense Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, who disclosed that 16 officers were taken into custody for alleged breaches of military regulations and acts of indiscipline.
However, an interim investigation later suggested the existence of a clandestine network of officers, allegedly coordinated by a senior Army officer, which had begun preliminary planning for a coup.
According to the report, the alleged plot involved surveillance of key national assets, including the Presidential Villa, Armed Forces Complex, Niger Barracks in Abuja, and major international airports, with October 25, 2025, cited as the planned date for the operation.
Those reportedly in custody include Brig Gen M. A. Sadiq, Col M. A. Maaji, Lt Col S. Bappah, Lt Col A. A. Hayatu, Lt Col P. Dangnap, Lt Col M. Almakura, Maj A. J. Ibrahim, Maj M. M. Jiddah, Maj M. A. Usman, Maj D. Yusuf, Capt I. Bello, Capt A. A. Yusuf, Lt S. S. Felix, Lt Cdr D. B. Abdullahi, Sqn Ldr S. B. Adamu and Maj I. Dauda.
The alleged plot, according to findings, targeted senior government officials, including President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
In a statement issued yesterday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr Felix Morka, said the exercise would take place in all wards and designated centres nationwide.
He called on existing members to update their records, while encouraging new entrants to join the party through the digital platform.
“As the electronic membership registration exercise resumes in all wards and designated locations nationwide, we urge existing members to validate their membership while new members are encouraged to register and join the progressive family,” Mr Morka said.
According to him, eligibility for registration is limited to individuals aged 18 and above who possess a valid National Identification Number (NIN).
The party said the initiative is part of efforts to modernise its operations by transitioning to a digital database that would enhance record accuracy and accessibility.
Mr Morka noted that the e-registration would “digitise the party’s membership register, ensure the integrity of records, and enhance efficient access to membership data for planning and management decisions.”
He added that the move is also aimed at promoting internal democracy within the party and strengthening its commitment to democratic innovation.
The APC had previously introduced electronic registration as part of broader reforms to streamline its membership system and improve organisational efficiency.
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