Senator Natasha 
kiRemoved from UN Women Delegation, Replaced by Male Senator Amid Controversy
Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian Senate has removed Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the country’s delegation to the 70th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW70) in New York, sparking controversy and concerns about gender representation.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was replaced by Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire, a male senator, despite earlier indications that she would be part of the delegation. Senator Ireti Kingibe, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, had assured Akpoti-Uduaghan’s inclusion but later confirmed that only she and Adegbonmire were officially nominated and registered for the event.
The decision has raised questions about transparency, fairness, and female representation in Nigeria’s participation at global policy forums. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s removal comes amid allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, which she denies, and follows her six-month suspension from the Senate in 2025.
Kingibe cited late submission of documents as the reason for Akpoti-Uduaghan’s exclusion, but critics argue that this is a case of gender bias and political maneuvering. Akpoti-Uduaghan may still attend the conference independently if she has a valid U.S. visa, but formal accreditation is required.
