Politics In Nigeria Has Made Me A Tough Woman – Says Senator Natasha

The lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District in the national assembly, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has expressed her concerns regarding the nature of political engagement in the country, particularly concerning the impact on women.

According to her, the nature of politics in Nigeria has made her a tough woman, a development she constantly quickens herself against.

Naija News reports that the lawmaker stated this during her address at the ECOWAS Female Parliament Association’s spotlight initiative, “Rethinking Women’s Proportional Representation in Governance: Case Study of Nigeria,” on Monday, July 22.

Sen Akpoti-Uduaghan shed light on the significant financial burdens associated with political participation in Nigeria.

She emphasized that this financial strain places women at a considerable disadvantage, as a majority of men in the country are more economically secure than their female counterparts.

The Kogi politician said: “Politics is extremely dangerous in Nigeria. In Nigeria, you can’t be gentle as a woman. I honestly wish politics in Nigeria would not be so tricky because when a woman who is born to nurture becomes too tough, it’s not good.

“I am so tough now that I rarely cry except maybe something totally touches my heart that I pushed myself. That is what violence teaches you, so I have to constantly tell myself, do not let your experiences change you because I don’t want to be like those who attacked me.”

The Kogi legislator underscored the financial implications of political candidacy, noting the exorbitant costs of contesting for office in Nigeria.

She further elucidated her impetus for entering the political arena, articulating her ambition to yield democratic benefits for her constituents.

In recounting her political odyssey, she detailed her deliberate decision to pursue a career in politics in 2018, the obstacles encountered during the electoral process, and her unwavering commitment to serving her community.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized the necessity for an electoral system that is less financially demanding and expressed her interest in exploring the independent candidature model in Liberia as a potential framework for reform.

She also discussed the personal sacrifices she has made for her political ambitions, including surviving accidents and enduring physical challenges throughout her political journey.

During her address, she highlighted women’s adversities in Nigerian politics, including the erosion of dignity and the cultural obstacles they face.

She called upon male political leaders to exercise caution in their discourse towards women in politics, advocating for their support and encouragement rather than criticism.

She concluded her remarks by advising women to develop their political agendas meticulously and to exercise restraint in their campaign promises, drawing from her personal experiences and the adverse effects it had on her well-being.

Furthermore, she mentioned her partnership with Senator Ireti Kingibe in the effort to introduce legislation aimed at achieving gender equity, with a focus on the inclusion of 45 per cent of women.