REMMY NWEKE in this episode of Telecoms Clinic examined the central role of social media in escalation of the feud between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio as the National Assembly searches for standards, integrity, accountability and mutual respect.
Recently, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio have been at odds. The tension between them escalated when Akpabio ordered Senator Natasha's removal from the Senate chamber due to her refusal to move to a new seat as part of a revised seating arrangement.
Senator Natasha resisted, delivering a loud rant in the Senate, saying, "I am not afraid of you. Do whatever you deem fit, but I will not leave this seat. My voice will not be silenced." The situation became heated, with the Sergeant-at-Arms called in to escort her out. However, other lawmakers intervened, and she was eventually allowed to stay.
Social media in the mix:
This incident was not an isolated event. Senator Natasha has accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, defamation, and targeted intimidation, filing a N100 billion lawsuit against him. She claimed Akpabio orchestrated a campaign to undermine her reputation and legislative influence, including defamatory remarks made on social media by his legislative aide.
The lawsuit demands a public apology, retraction of the defamatory statements, and N100 billion in damages for defamation, emotional distress, and injury to her reputation.
Many observers have pointed out that the ongoing feud highlights the tensions and power struggles within Nigeria's Senate.
Lessons from the feud:
However, there are several lessons that could be gleaned from this incident including power struggles and politics, importance of accountability, resilience and courage, need for effective conflict resolution; impact of social media as well as women’s empowerment and gender equality.
Specifically, the incident highlighted the intense power struggles and politics within Nigeria's Senate, demonstrating how personal interests and agendas could influence decision-making.
With Senator Natasha's refusal to back down and her decision to file a lawsuit demonstrate the importance of holding those in power accountable for their actions. While her determination to stand up for herself, even in the face of intimidation, serves as a powerful example of resilience and courage, just as the incident underscored the need for effective conflict resolution mechanisms within institutions, to prevent escalations and promote constructive dialogue.
Responsible social media usage:
Impactfully, social media has been playing a central role in amplifying defamatory remarks and exacerbating the conflict highlighted the importance of responsible social media usage and the need for effective regulations.
For Senator Natasha's experience serves as a reminder of the challenges women in leadership positions often face and the need for continued efforts to promote gender equality and empowerment.
Presiding officer side:
On the other hand, there are some lessons from Senate President Godswill Akpabio's side as the presiding officer of the National Assembly which may not be limited to upholding accountability and transparency, respect for colleagues, leadership by example as well as addressing sexual harassment among colleagues.
Therefore, as the presiding officer of the Senate, Akpabio's actions set the tone for the institution, hence the allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan highspotted the importance of accountability and transparency; because Akpabio's actions, as alleged, demonstrate a lack of accountability and transparency. This equally underscored the need for leaders to be answerable to the public and to uphold the highest standards of integrity.
Abuse of power?
The allegations also suggested that Akpabio may have abused his power and position to intimidate and harass a colleague, which emphasized the importance of treating colleagues with respect and dignity, regardless of position or power.
As the Senate President, Akpabio's behavior if confirmed, sets an example for other lawmakers, thus the allegations against him underscored the need for leaders to model the behavior they expect from others.
Sexual harassment in high places:
In addition, the allegations made by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan stressed the need for institutions to take allegations of sexual harassment seriously and to create a safe and respectful environment for all members.
Let the court decide:
At long last, as Nigerians wait for the outcome from the court, the allegations against Akpabio serve as a reminder that leaders must uphold the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and respect for others.
Overall:
But overall, social media played a central role in the feud between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, amplifying the allegations, mobilizing public support and backlash, and providing a platform for accountability and transparency.
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