By Vivian Onyebukwa
The Women in Management, Business, and Public Service (WIMBIZ), has expressed deep concern over the recent incidents that highlight the ongoing challenges faced by women in leadership across Nigeria.
A statement by the women organisation noted that the past 24 hours have brought to light two alarming cases that exemplified the systemic obstacles, bias, and hostility women continue to endure when they step into positions of power and influence.
“First, we are troubled by reports of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan- a female senator facing severe institutional pushback after raising concerns about misconduct. She has not been given a fair hearing and no investigation conducted as far as public knowledge is concerned. But she has been met with punitive measures that effectively silence her and compromise her ability to serve,” the statement emphasised.
The statement further raised the issue of invasion on Ikeja Electric, yesterday, by personnel of the Nigerian Air Force, who manhandled the CEO of the company, Folake Soetan and other members of staff in what it described as a flagrant abuse of power.
The statement stated that uniformed officers ransacked its offices, destroyed property, and terrorised staff—including its CEO – Mrs Folake Soetan, who was subjected to intense intimidation and harassment simply for doing her job.
“These incidents are reflective of a broader reality- women in leadership positions across Nigeria, whether in politics, business, or public service, are too often subjected to undue scrutiny, intimidation, and, in extreme cases, physical harm.”