Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has formally submitted a petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of sexual harassment.
The petition, presented during Wednesday’s plenary session, was immediately referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct for review.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, speaking under Order 40 of the Senate Rules, reminded her colleagues that she had previously made the allegations during an interview on Arise TV but was now officially bringing them before the Senate.
“I am submitting this petition formally as part of my commitment to ensuring justice and accountability,” she stated.
In response, Akpabio denied the allegations, insisting that he had never engaged in any form of harassment.
“At no time did I ever harass any woman. I was raised by my late single mother and have always upheld respect for women,” Akpabio stated. “I was even honored as the most gender-friendly governor in Nigeria.”
The Senate President acknowledged that he had been receiving numerous calls about the matter since February 25 and was aware of the intense discussions on social media. However, he urged the public to allow due process to take its course.
“I encourage Nigerians to refrain from making assumptions and allow the appropriate legal and institutional processes to handle this matter,” he added.
The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct is now tasked with reviewing the petition and making its recommendations.
