Women in Management, Business, and Public Service (WIMBIZ) is deeply concerned about the recent incidents that highlight the ongoing challenges faced by women in leadership across Nigeria. The past 24 hours have brought to light two alarming cases that exemplify 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.

Second, we strongly condemn the violent siege on Ikeja Electric yesterday by personnel of the Nigerian Air Force in a flagrant abuse of power. Reports confirm that uniformed officers ransacked its offices, destroyed property, and terrorized staff—including its CEO – Mrs. Folake Soetan, who was subjected to intense intimidation and harassment simply for doing her job.