Senate President Akpabio, Natasha to Testify Before Senate Committee Over Sexual Harassment Allegations
The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions (SCEPPP) is set to hear testimonies from Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Kogi Central lawmaker Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over allegations of sexual harassment. The development follows claims by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan that Akpabio sexually harassed her during a visit to his residence in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, in December 2023.
Background of the Allegations
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), alleged that Akpabio made inappropriate advances toward her during the visit, even in the presence of her husband. She claimed that the Senate President held her hand, led her around his house, and behaved inappropriately.
The allegations have sparked widespread controversy within the Senate and beyond, prompting calls for a thorough investigation. However, Akpabio has vehemently denied the claims, describing them as baseless and politically motivated.
Senate Committee to Hear Testimonies
Senate Deputy Chief Whip Onyekachi Nwebonyi confirmed that both Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan, along with other senators present during the alleged incident, would testify before the committee.
“All the parties involved would appear before the Committee, including the Senate President. He would come and testify, and his testimony would be recorded, likewise other senators,” Nwebonyi stated during an appearance on Channels Television on Friday.
Nwebonyi, who represents Ebonyi North, dismissed the allegations, suggesting they were an attempt to divert attention. He argued that there was no credible evidence to support the claims, stating, “In criminal prosecution, there is what we call prima facie evidence, that is, evidence on the surface. If there is no prima facie evidence, then there is no case.”
He added, “She knows quite well that what she is saying is to divert attention, but we are not disturbed because we know the truth. On the alleged date of the incident, so many senators were there. I am one of the star witnesses, and I will come and tell the world what I saw.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension and Global Appeal
The controversy escalated when the Senate suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan shortly after she submitted a petition against Akpabio. The suspension, which she described as illegal, was reportedly based on violations of Senate rules.
Refusing to remain silent, Akpoti-Uduaghan took her case to the global stage, addressing the Women in Parliament session at the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting held at the United Nations in New York.
“I was suspended illegally because I submitted a petition for sexual harassment against the President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio,” she told the gathering. She added, “I thought that by submitting the petition, he would recuse himself and both of us would submit ourselves to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions for a fair, transparent investigation. But unfortunately, I was silenced and suspended.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan described her suspension as part of a broader issue of gender exclusion in Nigerian politics, stating, “My suspension is not just about me. It’s about the systemic exclusion of women from political leadership in Nigeria.”
Akpabio’s Defense
Senate President Akpabio has strongly refuted the allegations, maintaining his innocence and urging the public not to jump to conclusions.
“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 stated.
Akpabio also acknowledged the intense public scrutiny and growing social media discourse on the issue, calling for restraint.
“I have been inundated with calls on the matter since February 25. I am aware of the growing discussions on social media, but I urge Nigerians, the media, and social media users to refrain from making conclusions,” he said.
Implications for Nigerian Politics
The case has drawn national and international attention, raising critical questions about gender equity, political accountability, and justice within Nigeria’s legislative system. As the Senate Committee prepares to hear testimonies, the outcome of the investigation will have significant implications for the credibility of Nigeria’s political institutions and the treatment of women in leadership roles.
Conclusion
The allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the subsequent suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan have ignited a contentious debate about power, gender, and accountability in Nigerian politics. As the Senate Committee investigates the matter, the case underscores the urgent need for transparency, fairness, and justice in addressing allegations of misconduct within the country’s legislative framework.
