Renowned Nigerian actress Kate Henshaw has praised Senator Natasha Akpoti, who represents Kogi Central, for displaying courage in the face of her ongoing dispute with Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The controversy between the two lawmakers erupted on February 20, 2025, during a heated plenary session at the National Assembly. The disagreement stemmed from a clash over seating arrangements, which quickly escalated into a tense exchange.
Following the confrontation, the Senate referred Natasha Akpoti to its Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, accusing her of disorderly conduct. Despite the referral, Akpoti has refused to back down, maintaining that she is being unfairly targeted for standing her ground.
In a televised interview with Arise Television, Akpoti openly accused Senate President Akpabio of harassment, alleging that his hostility toward her was due to her rejection of his sexual advances. “This is not about a mere seating arrangement,” she stated. “This is about power, intimidation, and a refusal to submit to the whims of those who believe women should remain silent.”
Her bold revelation sent shockwaves across political circles, drawing both support and criticism. Determined to take action, Akpoti submitted a formal sexual harassment petition against Akpabio during the plenary session on March 5, 2025. The move has sparked widespread debate about gender dynamics within Nigeria’s political sphere, with many calling for an independent investigation into her claims.
Reacting to the unfolding controversy, celebrated actress Kate Henshaw publicly expressed her admiration for Natasha Akpoti’s bravery. In a powerful social media post, Henshaw applauded the senator for refusing to conform to outdated societal expectations that attempt to limit women’s voices.
“Women have been told for too long that they must be silent, obedient, and invisible,” Henshaw declared. “But this is a different era, and we will not be silenced.” She emphasized that Akpoti’s actions serve as a reminder that women have the right to occupy positions of power and demand respect.
Taking to Instagram, Henshaw shared a striking image of Natasha Akpoti, declaring her as her “Woman Crush Wednesday” (WCW). In an impassioned caption, the actress wrote,
“WCW: @natashaakpoti. We forget so readily how far we have come. We forget our lineage, history, and strength. We are told we are weak, spineless, and cannot think. We accept the new role foisted on us, the subtle submission imposed by religion, society, and tradition.”
Her words resonated with many women, sparking conversations about gender inequality, societal expectations, and the strength of women in leadership roles.
Henshaw’s post continued with an even stronger call to action, addressing the restrictions placed on women in governance and decision-making. “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 wrote. “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!”
Her statement echoed the long-standing struggles women face in breaking political and societal barriers, reinforcing the idea that they are just as capable—if not more—than their male counterparts.
The controversy surrounding Natasha Akpoti and Senate President Akpabio continues to dominate national discussions, with many awaiting further developments in the case. As the senator pushes forward with her petition, her decision to speak out has reignited broader conversations on women’s representation in politics, power dynamics, and the culture of silence surrounding harassment in leadership spaces.
With strong voices like Kate Henshaw lending their support, Akpoti’s case is evolving into more than just a political battle—it is becoming a symbol of resistance against oppression and gender-based discrimination in Nigeria.
