‘I Just Wanted To Work’, Natasha Tearfully Says As She Speaks On Travails
Suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has expressed deep pain over her current predicament, saying all she ever wanted was a place where she could work and contribute meaningfully.
In a tearful and emotional interview with the BBC on Wednesday, Akpoti-Uduaghan spoke about the struggles she has faced, particularly as a woman in Nigerian politics. She conveyed her frustration over what she described as a continuous battle against systemic oppression, and how she felt that her challenges were compounded by the gender biases prevalent in political spheres.
The senator, who was recently suspended for six months by the Senate over allegations of gross misconduct, suggested that her removal was politically motivated. She linked it to her refusal to give in to sexual harassment, which she claimed was part of the larger power dynamics that have consistently sought to undermine her.
“I just wanted a place where I will work,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said, her voice trembling with emotion. “I thought the worst was over after the elections, but I guess for a woman, it’s never really over, right?” she added, hinting at the constant gender-based obstacles she continues to face.
Her emotional outburst reflected the depth of her frustration with the political system, which she feels has continuously made it difficult for her to succeed on her own merits. She opened up about the personal toll these struggles have taken, emphasizing that the battle for women in politics is far from over, even when they strive to contribute positively.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s comments have sparked conversations about the challenges women face in Nigerian politics, shedding light on the persistent obstacles to their advancement and the need for systemic reforms to ensure greater inclusivity.
