ABUJA, Nigeria – A Senate panel has recommended the immediate reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and called for Senate President Godswill Akpabio to step aside pending an investigation into the allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct. The recommendations were made in a report submitted to the Senate on Tuesday, following weeks of public outcry and protests over the suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The report has reignited debates about accountability, gender equality, and the rule of law in Nigeria’s legislative arm of government.
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Details of the Report
The Senate panel, set up to investigate the circumstances surrounding Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, found that due process was not followed in her removal. The panel also noted that the allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Akpabio are serious and warrant a thorough investigation.
“Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension was unconstitutional and should be reversed immediately. Additionally, Senate President Godswill Akpabio should step aside to allow for an independent investigation into the allegations against him,” the report stated.
The panel also recommended that the Senate adopt measures to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure that all members are treated fairly and with respect.
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Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended by the Senate in February 2025 after she accused Senate President Akpabio of sexual harassment. The suspension sparked widespread outrage, with many Nigerians condemning it as an attempt to silence the senator and protect Akpabio.
The senator’s suspension also drew international attention, with human rights organizations and gender advocates calling for her reinstatement and a thorough investigation into the allegations.
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Reactions from Stakeholders
The Senate panel’s recommendations have been welcomed by civil society organizations, gender rights advocates, and opposition lawmakers, who have long called for justice in the matter.
“This is a victory for justice and the rule of law. Senator Natasha must be reinstated, and the allegations against Akpabio must be investigated thoroughly,” said Aisha Yusuf, a gender rights activist.
However, supporters of Senate President Akpabio have criticized the report, describing it as biased and politically motivated.
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Calls for Accountability
The report has renewed calls for accountability and transparency in the Senate. Many Nigerians have expressed hope that the recommendations will be implemented to restore public confidence in the legislative arm of government.
“The Senate must act on these recommendations to demonstrate its commitment to justice and fairness. Anything less would be a betrayal of the trust Nigerians have placed in their leaders,” said Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, a senior advocate and public commentator.
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The Senate panel’s recommendations to reinstate Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and investigate Senate President Godswill Akpabio mark a significant development in the ongoing crisis. As the Senate deliberates on the report, the focus will be on ensuring that justice is served and that the integrity of the legislative arm is upheld.
For now, the recommendations have reignited hope for a more transparent and accountable Senate, but their implementation remains the ultimate test.
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