Supporters of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, alongside members of civil society groups, staged a protest at the National Assembly on Wednesday, calling for Senate President Godswill Akpabio to step down pending an investigation into allegations of sexual harassment.
The demonstrators gathered at the National Assembly gate as early as 8:00 a.m., hours before the resumption of plenary, to voice their demands for accountability and justice.
Carrying banners with messages such as ‘Akpabio Must Go’ and ‘Protect Women’s Rights’, the protesters urged the Senate to investigate the serious accusations leveled against Akpabio by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. The Kogi Central lawmaker had accused Akpabio of sexual harassment during a live television interview, claiming that the Senate President targeted her after she rejected his alleged advances.
The controversy stems from a seating arrangement change on February 20, 2025, which Akpoti-Uduaghan described as an act of retaliation. Her allegations have sparked widespread outrage and intensified tensions within the Senate.
A spokesperson for the protesting groups emphasized their commitment to ensuring a transparent and unbiased investigation. “We are here to demand justice for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and to hold those in power accountable. No one is above the law,” the spokesperson stated.
As of press time, neither Akpabio nor the Senate leadership has issued an official response to the protesters’ demands. The demonstration remained peaceful, with security operatives present to monitor the situation.
The protest highlights growing calls for accountability and gender equality in Nigeria’s political landscape, as stakeholders await further developments in the investigation. More updates to follow…