Actress Kate Henshaw praises Senator Natasha Akpoti for standing firm amid controversy over her dispute with Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Henshaw commended Akpoti’s courage, calling her a symbol of resilience for women in politics.
The conflict between the two senators erupted on February 20, 2025, during a heated plenary session. The disagreement reportedly stemmed from seating arrangements, leading to a tense exchange between Akpoti, who represents Kogi Central, and Akpabio. The clash quickly escalated, drawing widespread attention.
Following the altercation, the Senate referred Akpoti to its Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions. Lawmakers accused her of disorderly conduct during the session. The committee is expected to review the case and determine if disciplinary action is necessary.
Akpoti’s shocking allegation
However, Akpoti later made a startling claim. Speaking in an interview on Arise Television, she accused Akpabio of victimizing her because she had rejected his sexual advances. She insisted that the Senate President’s actions were not about parliamentary discipline but personal retaliation.
On March 5, 2025, Akpoti took a bold step. During a plenary session, she formally submitted a petition against Akpabio, accusing him of sexual harassment. Her move intensified public debate, with many calling for a thorough investigation into the allegations.
Public reactions and divided opinions
The situation has sparked mixed reactions across the country. Some have criticized Akpoti, questioning her claims and timing. Others have rallied behind her, urging authorities to take the matter seriously. Among those showing support is actress Kate Henshaw, a vocal advocate for women’s rights.
Henshaw expressed her solidarity with Akpoti in a heartfelt social media post. Sharing the senator’s picture on Instagram, she declared Akpoti her “Woman Crush Wednesday” (WCW). The actress praised Akpoti for challenging outdated narratives about women’s roles in society.
Kate Henshaw’s powerful statement
“We forget so readily how far we have come,” Henshaw wrote. “We forget our lineage, history, and strength. We are told we are weak, spineless, and unable to think for ourselves. We accept the new roles forced upon us—the subtle submission imposed by religion, society, and tradition.”
Henshaw criticized the belief that women should remain silent.
“They tell us we can’t govern, we can’t rule, we can’t make our own decisions. They tell us to shut up and sit down. Women, like children, are to be seen and not heard,” she added.
She ended her message with a powerful statement.
“Do you not know that in nearly all species, the female is much more deadly than the male? We are the offspring of countless women warriors!”
Growing support and political implications
Henshaw’s post quickly gained traction, with many social media users applauding her stance. Supporters hailed both women as symbols of strength and resistance against gender-based oppression.
Meanwhile, the Senate has yet to issue an official response to Akpoti’s allegations. Political analysts say the coming weeks will be crucial in determining how the matter unfolds. If the claims against Akpabio are formally investigated, it could set a significant precedent for accountability in Nigerian politics.
What lies ahead?
For now, Akpoti remains firm in her position. Despite facing criticism and possible disciplinary action, she continues to push back against what she describes as political intimidation.
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear—her battle has ignited a broader conversation about power, gender equality, and the treatment of women in leadership.
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