UPDATED: Natasha Akpoti Submits ‘Sexual Harassment’ Petition Against Akpabio as Senate Resumes Plenary (VIDEO)

On March 5, 2025, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, formally submitted a petition to the Nigerian Senate accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment and abuse of office.

Speaking under Senate Rule 40 during the plenary session, Akpoti-Uduaghan stated that she had previously made these allegations during a national television interview and was now officially presenting them before the Senate.

The petition’s submission coincided with protests at the National Assembly complex, where supporters of Akpoti-Uduaghan called for Akpabio’s resignation, while pro-Akpabio groups dismissed the allegations as unfounded.

In response to the petition, Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno and Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele opposed its consideration.

Monguno cited Senate Standing Order 40, arguing that the matter was sub judice due to an ongoing court case involving Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio’s wife, Ekaette, and that a petition signed by a senator could not be entertained. Bamidele supported this position and suggested a closed-door session to discuss the issue.

READ ALSO: ‘Women Can No Longer be Sexually Harassed Once They Become Senators’ —  Ita-Giwa

Senate President Akpabio denied the allegations, stating, “I did not harass Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan sexually, and I have never harassed any woman sexually.”

He emphasized his respect for women, referencing his upbringing by a single mother and his role as a father to four daughters. Akpabio also highlighted his recognition as a gender-friendly governor during his tenure from 2007 to 2015.

The Senate ultimately rejected Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition, aligning with the arguments presented by Monguno and Bamidele regarding its procedural impropriety and potential legal implications.

This development follows a recent confrontation between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio over the reassignment of her seat in the Senate chamber, which she perceived as unjustified.

The situation has garnered significant public attention, with various groups and individuals expressing differing opinions on the allegations and the Senate’s handling of the matter.

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