Recently, Senate President Akpabio has been falsely accused of gender bias, a narrative that could not be further from the truth. As a leader, Akpabio has consistently demonstrated a commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women.
Throughout his career, Akpabio has championed initiatives promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment. He has supported legislation and policies aimed at addressing gender-based violence, improving women’s access to education and healthcare, and promoting women’s participation in politics and the workforce.
Contrary to the false narrative, Akpabio has consistently advocated for women’s rights and gender equality. His leadership has created opportunities for women to thrive and reach their full potential.
During his time as Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Akpabio had a woman as his deputy Governor and at no time did he hinder her from performing the functions of her office, if anything, he gave her a larger platform to demonstrate her competence in public office.
He also appointed a woman as the Chief Judge of the State while he was in office as Governor. It is also on record that he facilitated the election of a woman as a Senator and apointment as a Minister.
Needless to mention the many women he appointed into cabinet positions and aides in the state as well. In Akwa Ibom State he is fondly referred to as the man who turned girls to women, to underscore his knack for women empowerment.
As Senate President, Akpabio has demonstrated yet again that his only bias is that of competence as he appointed women into different positions based solely on merit.
How do you accuse a man who himself has four lovely daughters of being anti women. It is indeed laughable to think about.
Akpabio’s statement on the floor of the Senate were to a colleague who had erred in procedure and it had nothing to do with gender, ethnicity or religion.
It is funny that the Senate President’s detractors would go to town with this narrative as it concerns a Senate which has given several platforms by Godswill Apkabio to shine.
Senator Natasha has been part of the National Assembly’s delegation to Inter-Parliamentary Union as a member of the Nigerian delegation ably led by the Chairman of the National Assembly. It is noteworthy that as the leader of the Nigerian delegation, Senator Akpabio campaigned vigorously for the emergence of a woman as the President of the world parliamentary body.
As a first timer in the Senate, Senator Natasha was handed Chairmanship of vital committes as were other female Senators ; a clear testament to the uncommon nature of Godswill Akpabio’s leadership style.
It is as clear as daylight that these accusations of gender bias against Senate President Akpabio are baseless and misleading. His track record and leadership demonstrate a clear commitment to gender equality and women empowerment. Let us focus on promoting facts and celebrating leaders who champion inclusivity and equality for all.
Ahmed Tijani Mustafa is a Senior Legislative Aide to the Senate President