Senate President Godswill Akpabio has denied recent allegations of sexual harassment made against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. He addressed the claims on Wednesday when the Senate resumed after a week’s break.
Akpabio firmly rejected 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. I was even awarded the most gender-friendly governor in Nigeria.” He acknowledged receiving numerous calls about the situation since February 25 and urged Nigerians and the media to wait for the court’s decision instead of jumping to conclusions.
However, shortly after his statement, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan submitted a new petition under Order 40, accusing Akpabio of sexual harassment and abuse of office. She asked for permission to formally present her petition to the Senate.
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The Senate has referred the petition to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct for a prompt review.
Tensions within the Senate have been high since a seat rearrangement in February led to a confrontation between senator Natasha and Akpabio. This dispute has contributed to the allegations and raised concerns about behavior in the legislative body.
On Wednesday, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan arrived at the Senate Chamber with her husband. In a brief moment of affection, she shared a kiss with him before entering the chamber. However, when Akpabio arrived to start the session, she did not stand, breaking the usual custom of showing respect to the presiding officer.
