Former Minister of Works, Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, has shared his perspective on the political challenges faced by suspended senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, suggesting that her beauty may be playing a role in how she is perceived in the political space.
Speaking during an interview on Arise News TV, Ogunlewe stated that Natasha’s striking physical appearance makes it difficult for men to ignore her, which may in turn influence her interactions and the way she is treated within Nigeria’s political environment.
The former minister noted that female senators in the country have become increasingly confident and assertive in legislative debates, emphasizing that they no longer see themselves as inferior to their male counterparts. He cited examples of strong female politicians who have stood their ground and refused to be overshadowed by their male colleagues.
However, Ogunlewe expressed his opinion that Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s extraordinary beauty might create challenges in how she is viewed and engaged with by male politicians. He suggested that men naturally react to beautiful women, which could affect how they approach or interact with her in political circles.
He elaborated on his point, saying:
“The female senators did not look at themselves as if they were inferior to men. They were even up to the task. If you even mention that Ita-Giwa is a woman, the response you are going to get will make you ashamed of yourself because they will stand up to you.”
Commenting specifically on Natasha’s beauty, he further stated:
“But the beauty of Senator Natasha is a problem to her.
“You know, men — when somebody who is pretty passes by you, your attitude will change. You can smile, you can wink, but you may not talk to her. But her beauty is a problem, there’s no doubt about that.
“To men, when she’s passing, there’s no way a man will not look at that woman.
“It is a natural thing for a man to look at beautiful women. How can you be a man, and a beautiful woman is passing, and you close your eyes?”
Ogunlewe’s remarks have sparked discussions on social media, with many debating whether beauty should be considered a factor in a person’s political career and whether such comments reflect deeper issues of gender dynamics in Nigerian politics.