Senate Passes Vote of Confidence in Akpabio Amid Natasha Controversy

The Nigerian Senate has reaffirmed its support for Senate President Godswill Akpabio by passing a vote of confidence in his leadership amid ongoing tensions with Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

In the midst of the ongoing controversy affecting the Nigerian Senate, on Thursday, a vote of confidence was passed by the Red Chamber in support of Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s leadership.

This follows Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele’s motion under Orders 40 and 51 addressing the recent controversy in the upper chamber. He emphasized the importance of clarity, adherence to legislative rules, and a renewed focus on governance.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, was suspended by the Senate following allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

She labeled her suspension as unjust and reported the issue to the United Nation’s Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) on Tuesday.

In response to her complaint to the IPU on Wednesday, the Senate clarified that Senator Natasha’s suspension is unrelated to her sexual abuse allegation against Akpabio. Instead, it was due to gross misconduct and violation of Senate rules.

Senator Bamidele, addressing the Senate floor, acknowledged that public interest in the issue had increased following allegations made by another senator.

He asserted that from August 2023 to now, the Senate was never informed of any sexual harassment allegations. He emphasized that the matter concerned solely disciplinary actions regarding violations of Senate rules.

He stated, “I want to clarify that the issue brought before the Committee on Ethics and Privileges was unrelated to sexual harassment. The Senate President did not oversee any case concerning such accusations. Instead, we addressed a blatant violation of Senate rules and adhered strictly to due process as outlined by the Constitution.”

He additionally upheld the Senate’s authority to manage its proceedings, including suspending a senator, arguing that these actions are essential for maintaining order and preserving legislative integrity.

He rejected claims that the Senate exceeded its constitutional authority, stating that suspension is the only alternative to prevent chaos within the chamber.

“Previously, we have never faced any issues of sexual harassment among our members and we stand firm on that. It’s important for us to move past the events of the last two weeks and focus on our tasks ahead. We are committed to advancing work in front of us, including ensuring legislative progress with electoral reforms and other matters.”

Concerning international reactions, he further explains that the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) acted in accordance with its own regulations and any statements made by the Senator at the IPU meeting were expressed personally rather than as an official representative of Nigeria.

“Previously, we have not faced issues of any senator being sexually harassed. It’s important to move beyond the events of the past two weeks and concentrate on our legislative duties. We must address essential tasks ahead, including electoral reforms, economic recovery initiatives, and tax reform legislation.”

The Seventh Schedule of the 1999 Constitution is explicit, and we all took an oath to create laws for the benefit of this country. We committed to that pledge and ensured everyone upholds it.

The Senate leader also spoke to the Civil Society Organizations, acknowledging that while Nigeria is making progress, it still confronts major challenges. He encouraged the public to remain objective in their assessments and focus their efforts on addressing real instances of sexual harassment.

“We acknowledge your input, but we need to focus on our work. Therefore, if we decide not to comment further on this matter, be aware that it’s a deliberate choice. We encourage you to remain objective in your analysis and direct efforts towards supporting genuine victims of sexual harassment.”

In conclusion, the Senate expressed confidence in Senate President Godswill Akpabio’s leadership by passing a vote of confidence and praised how the situation was managed.

The Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, who led Thursday’s plenary session, highlighted that the passage of the budget necessitates a focus on oversight functions by the legislature.

He emphasized that the issue is currently in the hands of the courts, and therefore, he believes the Senate should let the legal process unfold.