By Abiodun Omonijo, 1st March, 2025
News SOCIETY WATCH following for you : Over the years, one principle I have consciously trained myself to uphold, guided by the values instilled in me by my parents, is objectivity — especially in the era of social media where opinions are often driven by sentiments rather than facts. I have learned to listen to both sides of any issue, carefully analyze the facts, and avoid taking sides prematurely, because there are always three sides to a story – yours, theirs, and the truth.
I have consistently applied this principle by not rushing to comment on sensitive matters until substantial facts emerge — usually within 48 to 72 hours — when some measure of clarity is in the public domain.
On the ongoing saga between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, I have neither supported Natasha nor crucified Akpabio. However, what I frown deeply at is the rising pandemic of sexual harassment and the endemic culture of blackmail in our society — two social vices that are fast becoming normalized to the detriment of our collective morality and mental well-being.
I firmly believe the judiciary has a critical role to play in addressing these societal ills by imposing harsh penalties on those found guilty — both those who harass others sexually and those who weaponize blackmail to destroy reputations. It is a great disservice to society when victims of sexual harassment are denied justice or when those falsely accused are not given legal redress. The law must protect both the vulnerable and the falsely accused.
The involvement of the spouses of both personalities in this case further reinforces the depth of the rot we are dealing with in our society. It is my sincere hope that this legal battle will not be swept under the carpet but will serve as a watershed moment in our collective quest to rid our society of these twin evils that have destroyed lives, marriages, mental health, and self-esteem — especially among women and a few men who face this silent monster daily.
It is time we rise above political affiliations, loyalty to leaders, and gender biases in addressing these issues. We must pursue truth, justice, and the restoration of morality in our society.
May God help Nigeria.
