A Show of Solidarity
Nollywood actress and activist Kate Henshaw has thrown her support behind Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, commending her courage amid her ongoing dispute with Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Henshaw’s endorsement comes as Natasha faces a sexual harassment trial following her explosive allegations against Akpabio.
In a powerful Instagram post, Henshaw celebrated Natasha as her “Woman Crush Wednesday” (WCW), praising her resilience and refusal to conform to outdated stereotypes about women’s roles in society.
The Backstory: Natasha’s Battle with Akpabio
The controversy began on February 20, 2025, when Natasha and Akpabio clashed over seating arrangements during a Senate plenary session. The Senate subsequently referred Natasha to its Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions for alleged disorderly conduct.
However, the situation escalated when Natasha accused Akpabio of sexual harassment during an interview on Arise Television. She claimed that the Senate President targeted her after she rejected his advances. On March 5, 2025, Natasha formally submitted a sexual harassment petition against Akpabio during plenary, intensifying the ongoing drama.
Kate Henshaw’s Powerful Message
In her Instagram post, Henshaw shared a photo of Natasha and penned a heartfelt tribute, celebrating her as a symbol of strength and defiance against societal norms.
Henshaw 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. 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. 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 message resonated with many, highlighting the struggles women face in male-dominated spaces and celebrating Natasha’s courage in standing up for herself.
A Broader Conversation: Women in Leadership
Henshaw’s post has sparked a broader conversation about the challenges women face in leadership roles, particularly in politics. By applauding Natasha’s bravery, Henshaw is shedding light on the systemic barriers that often discourage women from speaking out against injustice.
Her reference to women as “offspring of countless women warriors” serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength that women have demonstrated throughout history.
A Call to Action
Kate Henshaw’s support for Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is more than just a show of solidarity—it’s a call to action for women everywhere to embrace their power and challenge societal norms. As Natasha’s case unfolds, her courage serves as an inspiration for women in Nigeria and beyond to stand up for their rights and demand accountability.
In the words of Henshaw, women are not to be silenced or sidelined. They are warriors, leaders, and changemakers, capable of shaping a better future for all.
