Atiku Abubakar, Nigeria’s former Vice President, has strongly condemned the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, calling it a blatant suppression of women’s rights.

In a statement marking International Women’s Day, Atiku emphasized the importance of women’s participation in governance and expressed concerns over the continued efforts to silence them .

Atiku praised Nigerian women for their resilience and contributions to nation-building, but lamented that despite the country’s democratic framework, women in leadership still face deliberate suppression.

He described Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension as a clear example of this phenomenon, which undermines fairness, representation, and gender inclusivity.

Atiku reaffirmed his commitment to advancing and protecting women’s rights in Nigeria, stating that national progress depends on the empowerment of women.

He emphasized that women must be encouraged and empowered to participate fully in governance, rather than being stifled when they take on leadership roles