Senate President Godswill Akpabio has strongly denied allegations of sexual harassment leveled against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, dismissing the claims as baseless and reaffirming his commitment to respecting women.
Speaking at the Senate’s plenary session on Wednesday, following a week-long recess, Akpabio addressed the growing controversy surrounding the accusations.
“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 stated.
The Senate President acknowledged the intense scrutiny and widespread discourse on the matter since February 25, noting the surge in media attention and social media discussions. He urged the public, journalists, and online commentators to refrain from rushing to conclusions, emphasizing the need to allow due process to take its course in court.
However, soon after Akpabio’s remarks, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan formally raised a fresh petition under Order 40, reiterating her allegations of sexual harassment and abuse of office. Seeking an official review, she requested permission to submit the petition before the Senate chamber.
Following her submission, the Senate referred the matter to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct for further investigation, instructing them to examine the claims at the earliest possible time.
The allegations stem from a heated altercation in February over a seat reassignment in the Senate chamber, which escalated into a direct confrontation between Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio. The dispute has since fueled controversy, deepening tensions within the legislative body and sparking renewed concerns over professional decorum and ethical conduct.
Amid the ongoing developments, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan arrived at Wednesday’s plenary session accompanied by her husband, adding another layer of intrigue to the unfolding drama.
In a brief yet affectionate moment, she shared a kiss with her spouse before proceeding into the chamber to take her seat. However, upon Akpabio’s arrival to commence proceedings, she pointedly refused to stand, breaking with the traditional gesture of respect accorded to the Senate’s presiding officer.
