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Tinubu Reverses Maryam Sanda’s Pardon Amid Public Backlash

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By Prosper Mene 

 In a response to widespread public outrage, President Bola Tinubu has revoked the presidential pardon granted to Maryam Sanda, a woman convicted of killing her husband.

Sanda, who faced a death sentence, will now serve a total of 12 years in prison, meaning she has about six more years left to complete her term.The decision came just days after the initial pardon list sparked fierce criticism across Nigeria.

Maryam Sanda, 37, was sentenced to death by hanging in January 2020 by a Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja. She was found guilty of culpable homicide in the 2017 stabbing death of her husband, Bilyaminu Bello, the son of former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Chairman Haliru Bello. The case drew national attention due to its tragic details and the high-profile family involved. Sanda has been held at the Suleja Medium Security Custodial Centre since her conviction, where she has spent six years and eight months so far.

The controversy began earlier this month when President Tinubu approved clemency for 175 convicts, including Sanda, on the advice of the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy. Her family had appealed for mercy, citing her good behavior in prison, remorse, and the needs of her two young children. The pardon was seen as a compassionate act, but it quickly ignited a firestorm of anger from victims’ families, opposition leaders, and ordinary Nigerians who viewed it as a slap in the face to justice.

Public reaction was swift and intense. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the pardons, calling them a “grave setback to Nigeria’s anti-drug campaign” and an “affront to justice,” especially since the list included people convicted of drug trafficking and other serious crimes. The African Democratic Congress and human rights groups, like the Nigerian Bar Association’s Section on Public Interest and Development Law, also slammed the decision as a “mockery of justice.”6040e7 Social media exploded with hashtags and posts demanding accountability, with many arguing that freeing a convicted murderer undermined trust in the legal system.

Facing the mounting pressure, President Tinubu acted quickly. On Wednesday, October 29, an official gazette announced the reversal, signed off by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

Sanda’s full pardon was scrapped, and her sentence was commuted to 12 years instead, based on “compassionate grounds” like her role as a mother and model prisoner behavior. The updated list also removed 68 other names tied to crimes such as kidnapping, human trafficking, fraud, and illegal arms possession. Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi confirmed the changes followed consultations with the Council of State.

In a statement, the presidency thanked Nigerians for their “constructive feedback” and stressed the administration’s dedication to fair justice reforms.bf7075 To prevent future missteps, Tinubu ordered the Advisory Committee’s secretariat moved from the Ministry of Special Duties to the Ministry of Justice for better oversight. He also issued posthumous pardons to historical figures like environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa and poet Mamman Jiya Vatsa, honoring their legacies without stirring controversy.

The reversal has brought some relief to critics, but questions linger about the pardon process. Bilyaminu Bello’s family, despite earlier forgiveness from the victim’s father, welcomed the tougher stance as a win for accountability. Women’s rights advocates praised the balance of mercy and punishment, noting it protects Sanda’s children while honoring the victim’s memory.

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Nigeria Police Force Gears Up to Honor 70 Years of Women in Policing

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By Prosper Mene

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) is preparing to mark a historic milestone by celebrating 70 years of women’s contributions to law enforcement. The event, announced by Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, honors the courage and dedication of female officers since their first enlistment in 1955.

Scheduled for December 3-4, 2025, the two-day commemoration will bring together serving and retired policewomen to reflect on their transformative impact on national security.

Over the decades, women have joined the ranks of the NPF in growing numbers, breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field. From handling administrative duties to leading tactical operations and investigations, female officers have proven their mettle in diverse roles. Their entry in 1955 marked the beginning of a gradual shift toward gender inclusivity, helping to build a more balanced and empathetic police service.

IGP Egbetokun praised the women as “pillars of integrity, empathy, and excellence,” crediting them with enhancing the force’s operational success and public trust. He highlighted how their compassionate approach has redefined policing, fostering stronger community ties and improving responses to sensitive issues like gender-based violence. This anniversary underscores the NPF’s progress in empowering women to rise to leadership positions.

The celebration will feature a lineup of engaging activities designed to educate and inspire. Highlights include a national lecture on the evolution of women in policing, an exhibition showcasing historical artifacts and milestones, and interactive panel discussions with veteran officers. These sessions will explore challenges faced and lessons learned, offering insights for future generations.

A community outreach program will cap the events, focusing on mentoring young women interested in law enforcement careers. This initiative aligns with the IGP’s vision for ongoing training and development, ensuring female officers receive the tools to excel. By promoting professionalism and inclusivity, the NPF aims to attract more diverse talent to its ranks.

This 70th anniversary serves as a powerful reminder of women’s enduring role in safeguarding the nation. The NPF’s commitment to their advancement not only strengthens the force but also inspires broader societal change.

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NewsSport

Nigerian Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie Nominated for Prestigious 2025 IFFHS Women’s World Best Goalkeeper Award

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By Prosper Mene 

Super Falcons star Chiamaka Nnadozie has been shortlisted for the 2025 International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS) Women’s World Best Goalkeeper award, placing her among an elite group of ten global nominees.

The 24-year-old Nigerian sensation, who currently plies her trade for Brighton & Hove Albion in England’s Women’s Super League, earned the nomination through a string of breathtaking performances that have solidified her status as one of the world’s premier shot-stoppers. If victorious, Nnadozie would etch her name in history as the first African woman to claim the honor, following in the footsteps of previous winners like Spain’s Sandra Paños and Germany’s Almuth Schult.

The IFFHS, founded in 1987, honors excellence in football through votes from journalists and analysts across more than 120 countries. The 2025 winners, including rankings for goalkeepers, players, referees, and coaches, will be unveiled in December. Nnadozie joins a formidable shortlist featuring the likes of Germany’s Ann-Katrin Berger (Gotham FC), Spain’s Cata Coll (Barcelona), England’s Hannah Hampton (Chelsea), and Chile’s Christiane Endler (Lyon).

This nod caps a banner year for Nnadozie, whose heroics have lit up both club and international stages. At club level, she was instrumental in Paris FC’s Coupe de France Féminine triumph in June, where she heroically saved two penalties in the final against Paris Saint-Germain. Her move to Brighton in July marked a historic transfer, making her the first Nigerian player to join the Seagulls and bolstering their ambitions in the WSL. There, she’s already earning accolades, including a recent nomination for the Barclays WSL Save of the Month for October after a stunning stop on a Tottenham free-kick.

Internationally, Nnadozie’s brilliance shone brightest at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, where she backstopped Nigeria to a record-extending 10th title. Keeping multiple clean sheets en route to victory, she was crowned Best Goalkeeper and earned a spot in the Tournament Team of the Tournament. Earlier, she made waves at the 2024 Paris Olympics and became the first Nigerian and African nominee for the Women’s Yashin Trophy at the 2025 Ballon d’Or, finishing an impressive fourth.

Nnadozie’s journey from the Nigerian Women’s Premier League with Rivers Angels, where she won the title in 2019 and multiple cups, to Europe’s elite circuits underscores her rapid ascent. She debuted for the Super Falcons in 2018 against France and has since amassed 55 caps, including becoming the youngest goalkeeper to record a World Cup clean sheet at 19 during the 2019 tournament against South Korea.

As she eyes a potential third straight CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, Nnadozie’s nomination serves as a beacon for aspiring African talents. “It’s an honor to be recognized alongside the best,” she said in a recent interview. “But my focus remains on the team, whether at Brighton or with the Super Falcons. This is just fuel for more.”

Fans and pundits alike are buzzing with anticipation. Should Nnadozie lift the IFFHS trophy, it would not only validate her individual prowess but also highlight the growing global impact of African women’s football.

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Newswomen across the world

Funding Crisis Dismantles Global Fight Against Violence on Women, UN Warns

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By Prosper Mene 

The United Nations gender equality agency, UN Women, has issued a dire warning: sweeping funding cuts are forcing one in three women’s rights organizations to suspend or shut down critical programs aimed at ending gender-based violence.

The alarming findings, detailed in the newly released report At Risk and Underfunded, underscore a deepening crisis that threatens to reverse decades of hard-won progress in protecting women and girls worldwide.

The report, based on a global survey of 428 women’s rights and civil society groups, paints a picture of frontline services crumbling under financial strain. More than 40 percent of these organizations have scaled back or closed essential lifelines, including shelters, legal aid, psychosocial support, and healthcare for survivors. Nearly 80 percent reported reduced access to services for those in need, while 59 percent observed a troubling rise in impunity and the normalization of violence against women.

“Women’s rights organizations are the backbone of progress on violence against women, yet they are being pushed to the brink,” said Kalliopi Mingeirou, head of UN Women’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls section. “We cannot allow funding cuts to erase decades of hard-won gains. We call on governments and donors to ringfence, expand, and make funding more flexible. Without sustained investment, violence against women and girls will only rise.”

An estimated 736 million women, nearly one in three globally have experienced physical or sexual violence, most often perpetrated by an intimate partner, according to UN Women data. Earlier this year, the agency flagged that nearly half of women-led groups in crisis-affected regions were at risk of closure due to aid reductions, a prediction now borne out by the survey’s results. As resources dwindle, many groups are compelled to prioritize immediate emergency responses over long-term advocacy, stifling efforts for systemic change like policy reforms and community education.

This funding shortfall is exacerbated by a broader global backlash against women’s rights, now manifesting in one in four countries through restrictive laws, shrinking civic space, and political opposition.

The At Risk and Underfunded report arrives just as the international community reflects on the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a 1995 blueprint for gender equality that placed ending violence against women at its core. Yet, three decades later, global aid for gender-based violence prevention accounts for a mere 0.2 percent of total development funding, highlighting chronic underinvestment.

From Nepal to Nigeria and Peru to Tajikistan, the impacts are visceral: shelters shuttering, legal aid vanishing, and survivors left without psychosocial care amid surging demand fueled by conflicts, economic instability, and climate disasters. In South Sudan, for instance, only 25 percent of UNHCR-supported safe spaces for women and girls remain operational, potentially denying up to 80,000 people vital assistance.caccf6 Reports of conflict-related sexual violence have spiked by 50 percent in recent years, yet humanitarian funding for prevention and response was just 38 percent met in 2024.

UN Women and its partners, including the UN Trust Fund to End Violence against Women and Girls, are urging immediate action. They advocate for core, flexible, long-term funding to women’s rights organizations, particularly those led by and for women in high-risk settings to avert mass closures and safeguard vulnerable populations.

The Trust Fund, which supported 191 initiatives across 68 countries in 2023, reaching over 15 million people, emphasizes that such investments not only save lives but empower women and girls as agents of change.

 

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SportNews

Ogun Governor Abiodun Boosts Super Falcons with ₦50m Incentive Ahead of Crucial Benin Clash in Abeokuta

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By Prosper Mene

Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has announced a generous ₦50 million incentive package for the Super Falcons, just days before their crucial return-leg qualifier against the Benin Republic in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The gesture, revealed on the eve of the match, is aimed at firing up the nine-time African champions as they seek to seal qualification at the MKO Abiola International Stadium in Abeokuta.

The Super Falcons, fresh off a commanding 2-0 victory in the first leg played in Lomé, Togo, on Friday, returned to Nigerian soil over the weekend and wasted no time ramping up preparations at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena. Midfielder Deborah Abiodun was the standout performer in the away win, delivering two pinpoint assists that set up strikes from Chinwendu Ihezuo in the 24th minute and Esther Okoronkwo just before halftime. Her creative flair not only handed Nigeria a two-goal cushion but also showed the team’s evolving style under head coach Justine Madugu.

Governor Abiodun’s financial boost has been hailed as a timely morale lifter, especially as the Falcons defend their WAFCON title and eye a spot in the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. “This is more than money; it’s a testament to our commitment to nurturing the stars who make Nigeria proud on the global stage,” Abiodun said in a statement released by his office. The package is intended to reward the players’ dedication and fuel their drive for another triumphant campaign.

Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi, Chairman of the Ogun State Football Association and a Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Executive Board Member, was quick to applaud the governor’s initiative. “On behalf of the Ogun State Football Association, we say a big thank you to the Governor,” Majekodunmi declared. “This demonstrates His Excellency’s passion for sports development. I urge residents and football lovers across Nigeria to fill the MKO Abiola Stadium tomorrow and roar the Super Falcons to victory. Come out and support our champions!”

Midfielder Deborah Abiodun urged fans during a pre-match training session on Sunday to pack the stands. “We’re eager to reward you with another strong performance,” she said. “Benin is a capable side, and we’re not underestimating them despite our lead. Your support will make all the difference.” Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who joined camp earlier in the week alongside stars like Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie, and Asisat Oshoala, is expected to lead the midfield charge, with forwards Ihezuo, Okoronkwo, and Folashade Ijamilusi primed for more goals.

Coach Madugu, speaking ahead of Tuesday’s 4 p.m. kickoff, emphasized a no-nonsense approach. “We take nothing for granted,” he warned. “The Beninoise will come fighting, but we’re ready to deliver a clinical performance and secure qualification. Goals are promised – we’re gunning for them to put this tie to bed.” Madugu’s squad boasts depth, with potential cameos from six-time African Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala adding firepower if needed.

On the other side, Benin’s coach expressed guarded optimism, noting their improved understanding of the Falcons after the first-leg defeat. “We know them better now,” he said, hinting at tactical tweaks to exploit any complacency.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Madagascar’s Dominique Rosa Hanjavola as center referee, assisted by Zimbabwe’s Claris Simango and Madagascar’s Hasimbola Rasoloniaina, with Grace Gimo of Zimbabwe as the fourth official. With a passionate home crowd and the governor’s backing, the stage is set for the Super Falcons to soar once more, extending their legacy as Africa’s queens of the pitch.

Tickets for the match are available at the MKO Abiola Stadium box office, with gates opening at 2 p.m. Football fans in Ogun and beyond are encouraged to turn out in force, turning Abeokuta into a cauldron of green-white-green fervor.

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NewsWomen in Nigeria

70% of Nigerian Women Live in Extreme Poverty, Says Minister

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By Prosper Mene

October 24, 2025 

Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs, has revealed that seven out of every ten women in the country are living in extreme poverty. She shared this shocking figure during a national summit on gender equality organized by her ministry and UN Women in Abuja.

The minister explained that extreme poverty means women cannot afford basic needs like food, clean water, medicine, or school fees for their children. “Many wake up every day unsure of their next meal,” she said. She pointed to major causes: women own little or no land, banks rarely give them loans, and they face barriers to education and good jobs.

Most of these poor women live in rural areas. They make up 70% of Nigeria’s farm workers and grow 60% of the nation’s food, yet they earn far less than men. In northern states, early marriage and low school enrollment keep girls out of classrooms. For example, only 54% of women can read and write, compared to 71% of men.

To fight this crisis, the minister announced a N500 billion Women Economic Empowerment Fund. The plan is to give small loans, training, and market access to 5 million women within two years. The government will also provide 100,000 solar-powered machines to help rural women process crops like rice and cassava, saving time and increasing income.

The minister urged the National Assembly to pass laws giving women more roles in government and protecting their rights to land and property. “Women are the backbone of our homes and economy,” she said. “When we lift women out of poverty, we build a stronger Nigeria for everyone.” Leaders from UN Women, banks, and civil society groups promised full support.

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NewsHealth

Katsina First Lady Calls for United Front Against Polio: “Every Child Deserves Protection

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By Prosper Mene 

October 24, 2025 –

Hajiya Zulaihat Radda, the First Lady of Katsina State, has rallied residents, community leaders, and health stakeholders to unite in the fight to eradicate polio once and for all. Speaking at a high-level media dialogue on immunization organized by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Katsina State Government, she emphasized that collective action is the only path to a polio-free future for the state’s children.

“Polio is not just a health challenge; it’s a threat to our children’s dreams and our shared prosperity,” Hajiya Radda declared. “We must all play our part—parents, fathers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and the media—to ensure no child is left behind. Vaccines are free, safe, and our greatest weapon. Let us commit today to a Katsina where every family thrives without fear of this preventable disease.”

The event, held in the state capital, focused on the upcoming Integrated October Polio Vaccination Campaign, which aims to reach at least 4.8 million children aged 9 months to 14 years with measles-rubella vaccines and 2.3 million under-fives with novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2). This initiative comes as Katsina remains one of Nigeria’s “Axis of Intractable Transmission” states, grappling with circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVPV2). Earlier this year, the state reported 16 cases across five local government areas, underscoring the urgency of intensified efforts.

Hajiya Radda’s remarks built on her ongoing advocacy, including a December 2024 gender mainstreaming program that engaged men’s groups like “Majalisar Riga-kafi” to boost immunization rates. UNICEF Kano Field Office Chief Rahama Farah, who addressed the dialogue, praised the First Lady’s leadership, noting that her involvement has been pivotal in targeting over 45% fully immunized children by year’s end. “With partners like the First Lady, we’re not just vaccinating, we’re transforming communities,” Farah said. “The governor’s support and these male involvement strategies will help us end transmission and close the zero-dose gap.”

Health experts at the forum highlighted operational challenges, such as security issues in hard-to-reach areas like Batsari LGA, where 98% of recent cases originated. World Health Organization (WHO) representatives reiterated their commitment to supporting door-to-door campaigns and directly observed oral polio vaccination (DOOPV) to reach every eligible child. “Nigeria is close to certification as polio-free, but Katsina’s role is critical,” said WHO State Coordinator Dr. Abdulnasir Adamu. “Through relentless outreach, we’re ensuring access to quality healthcare for all, aligning with our triple billion targets.”

The First Lady’s call loudens broader African initiatives, where first ladies have historically championed polio eradication, from the 2015 African Union pledge to recent continent-wide summits. In Katsina, her efforts are part of a multi-pronged strategy: community sensitization, media mobilization, and accountability measures to reduce missed children, a persistent hurdle identified in past studies, where non-compliance rates once hovered near 50%.

While the vaccination campaign kicks off, officials urge parents to present children at designated posts and dispel myths about vaccine safety. “This is our moment,” Hajiya Radda concluded. “Together, we can vaccinate our way to victory and build a healthier Katsina for generations to come.”

 

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News

Nigerian Comedian Lasisi Elenu and Wife Nonso Adika Celebrate Arrival of Baby Boy

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By Prosper Mene 

Lagos, Nigeria – October 23, 2025

Popular Nigerian skit maker Nosa Afolabi, widely known as Lasisi Elenu, and his wife, actress Nonso Adika, are overjoyed to announce the birth of their second child, a baby boy named River Elroi Adédámìnì Adewunmi Nosagie Anyalewechi Afolabi.

The couple shared the happy news on Instagram with a sweet photo of their newborn’s tiny feet, delighting fans across the country. The caption included a Bible verse, “He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water” (John 7:38), reflecting their faith and gratitude.

Lasisi and Nonso, who tied the knot in a private ceremony in 2022, are already parents to their daughter, Rain Olanma Oluwanifemi Afolabi, born in October of that year. The arrival of River Elroi marks another milestone for the couple, who have won hearts with their humor and love-filled family moments. Lasisi, famous for his funny skits using a voice-altering filter, had hinted at the pregnancy earlier this year. In a playful August post, he joked about a “strong Wi-Fi connection” at home leading to the new baby and called on diaper brands to get ready.

The announcement has caused excitement among fans and celebrities alike. Stars like Mr Macaroni and Iyabo Ojo flooded the couple’s post with congratulations, with Iyabo calling River a “little prince.” Fans have been especially charmed by the baby’s unique name, with some playfully calling him the “NSPPD Baby,” linking it to Pastor Jerry Eze’s prayer platform. Others noted the cute connection between the siblings’ names, Rain and River, joking that the family now has a “weather-themed” duo.

Lasisi has often shared glimpses of his life with Nonso, from her pregnancy cravings to their joyful parenting moments. When Rain was born, he described the overwhelming feeling of holding his first child, a sentiment he echoed in this latest post, praising Nonso as a “strong vessel.” The couple’s openness about their journey has made them relatable to many, blending Lasisi’s comedic fame with their down-to-earth family life.

While the Elenu household grows, fans are thrilled to see Lasisi embrace fatherhood alongside his thriving career. From creating viral skits to building a loving family, he and Nonso continue to inspire. Congratulations to the couple and their daughter Rain on welcoming River Elroi, may their home be filled with laughter and love.

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News

Ghana Mourns the Loss of Former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings at 76

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By Prosper Mene 

Ghana’s political and social landscape lost a towering figure today as former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings passed away at the age of 76. Reports from local media indicate she died at Ridge Hospital in Accra after a short illness, though details about the cause remain private as her family prepares to share more information.

The news, first breaking through unconfirmed channels, quickly spread across the nation, prompting an outpouring of tributes from leaders, activists, and ordinary citizens who remembered her as a fierce advocate for women’s rights and empowerment.

Nana Konadu, born on November 17, 1948, in the coastal city of Cape Coast, grew up in a middle-class family that valued education and public service. She attended the prestigious Achimota School, where she met her future husband, Jerry John Rawlings, a young Air Force officer who would later become one of Ghana’s most influential leaders. The couple married in 1977 and welcomed four children: Zanetor, Yaa Asantewaa, Amina, and Kimathi.

Zanetor has carried on the family legacy by serving as a Member of Parliament for the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Their partnership was more than personal; it became a symbol of resilience during turbulent times in Ghana’s history.

As First Lady, Nana Konadu served for nearly two decades, making her the longest in that role in the country’s history. From 1979 to 2001, she stood by her husband’s side through military rule under the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council and Provisional National Defence Council, and later during his elected terms as president from 1993 to 2001. But she was no mere supporter, she was a key advisor, often credited with shaping policies that addressed social inequalities. Her charisma and unapologetic style earned her both admirers and critics, but her commitment to change was undeniable.

Beyond the corridors of power, Nana Konadu’s true passion shone in her work for women and children. She founded the 31st December Women’s Movement, a groundbreaking organization that provided skills training, microloans, and leadership opportunities to thousands of women across Ghana. This initiative helped many break free from poverty and enter the workforce, proving that empowerment starts with practical support. “My desire is to see the emancipation of women at every level,” she once said, a mantra that guided her lifelong efforts.

Her advocacy extended to health, education, and rural development, leaving a blueprint for future generations of activists.

In later years, Nana Konadu carved her own path in politics, breaking barriers as the first woman to run for Ghana’s presidency in 2016 under the National Democratic Party, which she founded after leaving the NDC in 2012. Though she didn’t win, her campaign highlighted issues like economic justice and gender equality that continue to resonate.

Even after her husband Jerry’s death in 2020, she remained active, attending funerals and community events with grace, her last public appearance just weeks ago at a service in the Ashanti Region, where she sang hymns alongside dignitaries.

Her family has since informed President John Mahama of her passing, signaling the start of national mourning.

While Ghana reflects on Nana Konadu’s legacy, social media is alive with stories of lives she touched, from market women who started businesses through her programs to young politicians inspired by her boldness. Flags may soon fly at half-mast, and tributes are expected from across Africa.

In a nation still grappling with its democratic journey, her voice for the marginalized will echo on, reminding everyone that true leadership lifts others up. Arrangements for her funeral will be announced soon, but for now, Ghanaians hold space for grief and gratitude for a woman who lived fiercely for her people.

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NewsWomen & Business

Tense Exchange Rocks Nigerian Senate: Akpabio Rules Natasha Out of Order in Heated Abortion Bill Clash

by Women Times on

 Prosper Mene 

Abuja, October 22, 2025 

A charged atmosphere gripped the Nigerian Senate today as President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) locked horns over a contentious clause in the Criminal Code Amendment Bill, spotlighting deep divisions on abortion rights and parliamentary procedure.

The drama unfolded during plenary session when lawmakers debated the bill, which originated in the House of Representatives and was tabled for Senate concurrence by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central). The legislation aims to modernize Nigeria’s Criminal Code Act by aligning it with “contemporary social, moral, and medical realities.” Key proposals include harsher penalties for sexual offenses, such as a life sentence for defilement—up from the current five years and a dramatic escalation in punishments for aiding abortions.

Under the bill, individuals supplying drugs or instruments for abortions would face 10 years’ imprisonment without the option of a fine, a steep increase from the existing three-year term. While the Senate swiftly approved the defilement clause unanimously, with Akpabio emphasizing that “defilement is even more serious than rape,” the abortion provision ignited fierce debate. Senators grappled with thorny questions: When does abortion cross into “merciful” versus “cruel” territory? Should it be permitted in cases of rape, incest, or threats to the mother’s life?

Opposition mounted quickly. Senator Saliu Mustapha (Kwara Central) argued that blanket criminalization could overlook medical or religious justifications, potentially endangering lives. Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) voiced similar fears, warning that the clause might deter doctors from providing critical care or advice. “We must step down the bill for wider consultations to avoid endangering lives,” Ningi urged.

In response, Akpabio suspended deliberation on the abortion clause, referring it to the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters for review and a report within two weeks. The chamber adopted the motion via voice vote, seemingly closing the matter.

But the gavel’s fall did little to quell the fire. As proceedings moved forward, Akpoti-Uduaghan raised her hand insistently, pleading for the floor. “Mr. Senate President, please may I speak? I am a woman, and abortion has to do with women. It is very important, sir,” she implored, her voice cutting through the chamber’s hum. This marked her first major intervention since returning from a six-month suspension earlier this year, a penalty stemming from a prior altercation with Akpabio over seating arrangements.

Akpabio, however, stood firm. “Distinguished Senator, the matter has been stepped down in totality,” he replied, initially inviting brief additions before clarifying the finality. Undeterred, Akpoti-Uduaghan pressed on, focusing on the clause’s implications for women’s health and rights.

Enter Senator Adams Oshiomhole (Edo North), who swiftly raised a point of order. “If you grant this exemption to distinguished Senator Natasha, then you must extend the same exemption to us. At the end, we shall have no rules. The rules should be firm and applied the way you have done,” Oshiomhole cautioned, invoking Senate Standing Rule 52 (Sub-6), which bars reopening concluded matters.

Akpabio sided with Oshiomhole, invoking the rule emphatically. “I rule Senator Natasha out of order,” he declared, drawing murmurs from the floor and underscoring the chamber’s rigid adherence to protocol amid emotional stakes.

Post-plenary, Akpoti-Uduaghan did not mince words about her frustration. “I am disappointed I wasn’t allowed to speak about an issue that concerns women,” she told reporters. “My hand was up throughout the debate, and I felt the Senate President should have recognized me. I remain passionate about issues affecting women and intend to make my inputs when the bill reaches the committee stage.”

The clash adds to a string of procedural tussles involving Akpoti-Uduaghan, whose bold style has both endeared her to advocates for gender equity and irked traditionalists in the male-dominated Senate. Critics, including some online voices, speculate whether the ruling hints at lingering tensions from her suspension, though Akpabio’s office has dismissed such notions as baseless.

The episode lays bare Nigeria’s polarized stance on reproductive rights, where cultural conservatism clashes with calls for compassionate reforms. With the committee’s review looming, the bill’s fate and its potential to reshape access to safe abortions, remains in limbo, fueling anticipation for deeper consultations.

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