Senate Suspends Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for Six Months Over Sexual Harassment Allegation against Akpabio
The Nigerian Senate has suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months following her allegation of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The suspension, which was upheld after a voice vote, was based on a report by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, citing her alleged breaches of Senate rules. She is required to surrender all National Assembly property, have her security details withdrawn, and her office sealed immediately. Read more
Athena Commentary: The Senate’s decision to suspend Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan sends a troubling message about accountability and due process in Nigeria’s legislative chamber. Rather than addressing the serious allegation of sexual harassment with the transparency it demands, the Senate has chosen to silence the accuser.
By focusing on Senate rules violations—while largely ignoring the substance of her claims—the leadership risks reinforcing the perception that institutions of power in Nigeria operate to protect their own rather than uphold justice. This case is not just about Natasha; it’s about whether Nigerian women in politics can challenge the status quo without facing institutional retribution.
EFCC Grills Ex-Women Affairs Minister Uju Kennedy Ohanenye Over Alleged N138m Fraud
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has interrogated former Minister for Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy Ohanenye, over alleged misappropriation of N138 million. She is accused of violating procurement processes and diverting public funds intended for the P-BAT Cares for Women Initiative. Ohanenye, who was among five ministers sacked in October 2024, appeared at the EFCC headquarters and is reportedly cooperating with investigators. She has not yet been granted bail as investigations continue. Read more
Athena Commentary: This case raises serious concerns about financial accountability within Nigeria’s governance structure. The allegations against Uju Kennedy Ohanenye, if proven true, highlight systemic weaknesses in procurement oversight and budgetary transparency. The misuse of funds meant for women’s empowerment initiatives is particularly troubling, as it undermines efforts to support vulnerable groups. Beyond investigating individual cases, there is a pressing need for institutional reforms to prevent recurring financial misconduct within ministries.
Two Husbands Stab Wives to Death in Ogun State Amid Rising Domestic Violence Cases
Two tragic cases of domestic violence have emerged in Ogun State, where two husbands reportedly stabbed their wives to death in separate incidents. In Agbure Community, Ogun Waterside, a 36-year-old housewife, Josephine Isaac, was allegedly stabbed multiple times by her husband, Oju, during an argument. He fled the scene, leaving her in a pool of blood. Despite being rushed to the hospital, she was pronounced dead.
In another incident in Konigbagbe Village, along the Sagamu/Ogijo express road, 26-year-old Adikpe Stephen allegedly stabbed his 30-year-old wife, Adikpe Favour, with a kitchen knife. His elder brother, Adikpe Friday, reported the incident to the police, revealing that the suspect had a history of mental health issues. The police have launched a manhunt for both suspects.
Athena Commentary: These incidents highlight the alarming rise in domestic violence in Nigeria and the urgent need for stronger interventions. While law enforcement must act swiftly to bring the perpetrators to justice, the government and civil society must prioritise mental health support, conflict resolution training, and victim protection services. Beyond condemnation, authorities must strengthen mechanisms to identify and prevent domestic violence before it escalates into tragic loss of life.
Athena Centre Report Exposes Nigerian Universities as Among the Least Transparent Globally
The Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership has released a report ranking Nigerian universities among the least transparent globally. Titled “A National Embarrassment: Reforming Transparency in Nigerian Universities to Unlock Global Funding and Restore Credibility,” the study examined 64 universities and found that none published their budgets, audited accounts, or details of internally generated revenue.
At the launch of the report in Abuja, Athena Centre Chancellor Osita Chidoka criticised the culture of financial secrecy, warning that it deters international funding and partnerships. He urged universities to embrace transparency to restore credibility and unlock global opportunities. The Centre plans to collaborate with the National Universities Commission (NUC) to push for governance reforms in the sector.
Commentary: The Athena Centre’s latest report has revealed a troubling lack of transparency in Nigeria’s higher education sector, with no universities publishing their budgets, audited accounts, or internally generated revenue details. This secrecy is blocking global funding and partnerships, leaving institutions financially isolated.
Osita Chidoka’s strong stance underscores an urgent need for reforms—without transparency, Nigerian universities will remain stagnant while their global counterparts attract more research grants and collaborations. The Athena Centre’s push for accountability with the NUC could be a game-changer, but the real challenge lies in overcoming entrenched resistance within the system.