In a dramatic turn of events at the Senate plenary on Wednesday, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, formally submitted a petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of sexual harassment. The petition, presented under Order 40 of the Senate Rules, marks a significant escalation in the allegations initially raised by Akpoti-Uduaghan during an interview on Arise TV.
Addressing her colleagues, Akpoti-Uduaghan stated that she was now bringing the matter before the Senate for official consideration. Senate President Akpabio, who presided over the session, directed her to proceed with the submission. The petition was promptly referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct for further investigation.
Akpabio Denies Allegations
Earlier in the plenary, Akpabio had vehemently denied the allegations, asserting that he had never harassed any woman. He emphasized his upbringing and respect for women, citing his recognition as the "most gender-friendly governor" during his tenure as governor of Akwa Ibom State.
“At no time did I ever harass any woman. I was raised very well by my late single mother, and I have always upheld respect for women. I was even awarded the most gender-friendly governor in Nigeria,” Akpabio declared.
The Senate President acknowledged that he had been inundated with calls since February 25 regarding the allegations and was aware of the widespread discussions on social media. He urged Nigerians to avoid making premature judgments and allow the legal process to unfold.
“I urge Nigerians to refrain from making assumptions and allow the legal process to take its course,” Akpabio said.
Background of the Allegations
The allegations first surfaced during Akpoti-Uduaghan’s interview on Arise TV, where she accused Akpabio of inappropriate behavior. The claims quickly sparked heated debates online, with many calling for a thorough investigation. By formally submitting the petition to the Senate, Akpoti-Uduaghan has escalated the matter, ensuring it will be addressed through official channels.
Next Steps
The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct will now review the petition and determine the appropriate course of action. The committee’s findings could have significant implications for both Akpabio and the Senate, as the allegations touch on issues of ethics and conduct within the upper legislative chamber.
The development has drawn widespread attention, with many Nigerians closely monitoring the proceedings. The outcome of the investigation will likely influence public perception of the Senate’s commitment to accountability and transparency.
For now, the Senate has urged calm and restraint, emphasizing the importance of due process in addressing the serious allegations. As the investigation unfolds, the focus will remain on ensuring a fair and thorough examination of the claims.