Nigeria’s Senate President denies sexually harassing Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

|Published 3:45 PM ET, Wednesday March 5, 2025|

Abuja: Senate President Godswill Akpabio has formally denied allegations of sexual harassment made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. During a Senate plenary session on March 5, 2025, Akpabio stated, “At no time did I ever attempt any sexual harassment on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan or any other woman, for that matter.” ​

Akpabio emphasized his respect for women, attributing it to his upbringing by a single mother and his role as a father to four daughters. He also highlighted past recognition for gender inclusivity during his tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom State. ​

The allegations arose from an incident on December 8, 2023, when Akpoti-Uduaghan visited Akpabio’s residence in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. She claimed that Akpabio made inappropriate advances during this visit and later insinuated that she should “take care of him” for her motions to receive favorable consideration in the Senate. ​

In response to these allegations, Akpoti-Uduaghan filed a petition against Akpabio, accusing him of sexual harassment, abuse of office, and obstruction of her legislative duties. This petition was submitted during the Senate plenary and referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions for investigation. ​

Some Senators opposed the petition, citing Senate rules that prohibit deliberation on matters already before the court. They argued that the Senate lacks jurisdiction over issues currently under judicial consideration. ​

This is not the first time Akpabio has faced such allegations. In 2020, Joy Nunieh, former acting managing director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), accused him of sexual harassment, which he denied, labeling the claims as “false, malicious, and libelous.” ​

The current allegations have prompted calls for an independent and transparent investigation.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has urged President Bola Tinubu to ensure a thorough inquiry, while former Senate President Bukola Saraki has advised Akpabio to submit himself for open investigation to ensure fairness and transparency. ​

As the situation develops, the Senate’s handling of the petition and the outcomes of any investigations will be closely monitored.​

For more details, you can watch the following news report:

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