By DAYO ADESULU
March 5, 2025 – The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has strongly denied the sexual harassment allegations leveled against him by his colleague, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The controversy escalated after Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan formally submitted a petition to the Senate on Wednesday, reinforcing her claims against Akpabio.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Allegation Against Akpabio
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, had previously made the allegations in a national television interview but took a significant step forward by officially presenting them before the Senate. Speaking under Order 40 of the Senate Rules, she submitted her petition, emphasizing the seriousness of her claims.
Akpabio Denies Allegations, Cites Personal and Political History
In response, Senate President Godswill Akpabio categorically dismissed the allegations, stating that he has never engaged in any form of sexual harassment.
“I would like to state clearly that at no time did I ever attempt any sexual harassment on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan or any other woman for that matter. I and my siblings were raised by my late single mother, who instilled in us strong moral values,” Akpabio stated.
He further emphasized his commitment to gender inclusivity, citing his track record as the former governor of Akwa Ibom State, during which he received the Most Gender-Friendly Governor Award.
“I have four beautiful daughters, and I have always respected and upheld the dignity of women. As governor, I was honored with ‘The Most Gender-Friendly Governor Award’ between 2007 and 2015. My commitment to the protection and advancement of women’s rights is unquestionable,” he added.
Akpabio Urges Public to Wait for Court Verdict
Amid the growing controversy, Akpabio urged Nigerians and the media not to rush to conclusions, emphasizing that the matter should be settled legally rather than through public speculation.
“I urge all Nigerians, particularly the media and social media commentators, to await the court’s decision. Allegations remain allegations until proven in a court of law,” he said.
Senate Division: Monguno and Bamidele Challenge Petition
The petition submission sparked intense debate within the Senate chambers. Senate Chief Whip, Senator Mohammed Monguno (APC, Borno North), challenged the legitimacy of the petition under Order 40 of the Senate Standing Orders. He argued that since both Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and the wife of the Senate President, Mrs. Ekaette Akpabio, were already in court, the issue was sub judice and could not be entertained or referred to the Senate Ethics Committee.
Backing Monguno’s position, Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) also opposed the petition’s referral to the Ethics Committee. Instead, he suggested that the Senate discuss the matter behind closed doors.
Despite these objections, Senate proceedings continued, with Akpabio ruling that the session would move forward as scheduled due to the presence of visitors in the gallery.
Previous Tensions Between Akpabio and Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan
This is not the first time Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Akpabio have clashed. Just two weeks ago, a heated confrontation erupted during a plenary session when Akpoti-Uduaghan protested the reassignment of her seat by Akpabio. The Kogi Central senator arrived at the chamber to find her seat reassigned and her nameplate removed, sparking outrage.
Raising her voice in protest, she demanded an explanation for what she perceived as an unjustified and targeted move.
Public Reactions and Calls for Investigation
The allegations and counterclaims have sparked widespread reactions across Nigeria. Advocacy groups and political commentators have called for a transparent investigation to determine the truth of the allegations. Some women’s rights organizations have voiced their support for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, urging the Senate to take the matter seriously.
Conversely, Akpabio’s supporters insist that the allegations are politically motivated, aimed at tarnishing his reputation. A coalition of Akpabio’s allies has demanded that Akpoti-Uduaghan apologize publicly for what they claim is an attempt to discredit the Senate President.
Legal Implications and Next Steps
Legal experts have weighed in on the matter, noting that sexual harassment allegations of this nature require thorough investigation and due process. If the court finds substantial evidence to support Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims, the case could have significant political and legal ramifications for Akpabio’s career.
On the other hand, if the allegations are proven false, Akpoti-Uduaghan could face legal consequences for defamation. The coming weeks are expected to bring more clarity as both parties present their cases in court.
Conclusion
The allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan have shaken the political landscape in Nigeria. As the legal process unfolds, Nigerians are closely watching how the Senate and the judiciary handle this highly sensitive matter.
Will justice prevail, or will political maneuvering overshadow the truth? Only time will tell.
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Dayo Adesulu, online editor, SEO expert.
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