The President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio is facing mounting pressure following allegations of sexual harassment leveled against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The controversy has sparked protests, demands for an independent investigation, and calls for Akpabio’s resignation.
Allegations and Senate Proceedings
On Wednesday, during a plenary session, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, formally accused Senate President Akpabio of sexual harassment.
She invoked Senate Rule 40 to submit her petition, alleging that Akpabio had made inappropriate advances towards her during a visit to his residence in Uyo on 8 December 2023.
In response, Akpabio categorically denied the allegations, stating, “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.”
He further highlighted his recognition as the “most gender-friendly governor in Nigeria” during his tenure as Akwa Ibom State Governor.
The Senate has referred Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct for review, directing the panel to submit its findings promptly.
Public Protests and Police Response
The allegations have sparked public outcry, leading to protests at the National Assembly.
Supporters of Akpoti-Uduaghan gathered early Wednesday morning but were dispersed by police using teargas.
The demonstrators later reconvened at the Unity Fountain to continue their protest.
Reactions from Rights Groups
A coalition of women’s rights advocates from North Central, North East, and North West Nigeria, under the banner of Voices for Inclusion and Equity for Women (VIEW), has demanded an independent investigation into the allegations.
In a statement, VIEW called for Akpabio to step aside to allow for a fair and transparent inquiry, emphasizing that such allegations cannot be ignored or dismissed.
Adding to the pressure, the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) condemned the alleged mistreatment of Akpoti-Uduaghan and called for an independent investigation.
NEF spokesperson, Professor Abubakar Jika Jiddere, criticized the reported public intimidation of the senator, stating, “The treatment of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Senate President is completely unacceptable.”
NEF also demanded Akpabio’s resignation, arguing that his continued leadership could compromise the investigation. “These actions undermine the integrity of the Senate and set a dangerous precedent,” Jiddere added.
Counterclaims and Legal Actions
Peter Nwaebonyi, Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, has accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of having a history of making “reckless and false allegations of sexual harassment against prominent figures.”
He described the current claims as a desperate attempt to divert attention from legitimate disciplinary proceedings.
Additionally, Ekaette Akpabio, the wife of the Senate President, has filed two defamation lawsuits at the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking ₦350 billion in damages for the alleged harm to her husband’s reputation.
Calls for Senate Reform
VIEW has also demanded a review of Senate rules, particularly those that grant “excessive authority” to the Senate President, arguing that such powers enable abuse and marginalisation.
They emphasised the need for urgent reforms to ensure genuine gender inclusivity in the Senate.
- US Tells Citizens to Avoid Nigerian Military, Government Sites - June 24, 2025
- Nigeria Ranked 7th Friendliest Country to Strangers - June 23, 2025
- Julius Maada Bio Takes Over as ECOWAS Chairman - June 22, 2025