Akpabio Denies Sexual Harassment Allegations as Senator Natasha Files Fresh Petition

Senate President Godswill Akpabio refutes sexual harassment claims as Senator Natasha Akpoti submits a new petition, intensifying the controversy.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has refuted the allegations of sexual harassment made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

He responded to the allegations on Wednesday when the Senate reconvened for plenary following a week’s recess.

Senator Akpabio refuted the allegations, stating, “I have never harassed any woman. Raised by my late single mother, I’ve always shown respect for women and was even recognized as the most gender-friendly governor in Nigeria.”

The Senate President mentioned that he had received numerous calls regarding the issue since February 25 and acknowledged the increasing discussions on social media. He urged Nigerians, along with both traditional and social media users, to avoid jumping to conclusions and instead wait for the court’s decision on this matter.

Shortly after his comments, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan filed a petition under Order 40, alleging sexual harassment and abuse of office by the Senate President.

She asked for permission to advance and officially present the petition to the chamber.

The Senate then forwarded the petition to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct, instructing them to examine the issue as promptly as possible.

In February, a controversy erupted in the Senate when a seat rearrangement led to a confrontation between Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate President. The disagreement over the seating arrangement heightened tensions within the chamber, resulting in allegations of sexual harassment made by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. This incident has prompted renewed concerns about decorum and conduct among members of the legislative body.

On Wednesday, amid the controversy, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan entered the Senate Chamber accompanied by her husband.

In a quick yet tender moment, the Senator exchanged a kiss with her husband before entering the chamber to assume her seat.

After settling into her newly assigned seat, she nonetheless refused to stand when Akpabio arrived for the start of the plenary session, departing from the traditional display of respect for the presiding officer.