A petition accusing Nigeria’s Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, of sexual harassment has been dismissed by the ethics committee. The allegations were brought forth by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who accused Akpabio of making inappropriate advances during a visit to his residence in Akwa Ibom state on December 8, 2023.
The committee, tasked with reviewing the petition, cited procedural errors and legal limitations during an ensuing hearing. Senator Neda Imasuen, the committee chairman, stated,
“The petition runs contrary to Senate rules and cannot be entertained.”
Imasuen pointed out that Akpoti-Uduaghan had personally signed the petition rather than having it endorsed by another individual, which is against Senate protocols.
Allegations and Denials
In a subsequent interview with Arise Television, Uduaghan detailed her claims that Akpabio had suggested she should “take care of him” to ensure her legislative motions were treated favorably. She likened Akpabio’s behavior to that of an unprofessional university lecturer who penalizes students for rejecting advances.
Akpabio has firmly denied these allegations, asserting,
“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 emphasized that such claims do not align with his character or principles.
Public Reaction and Protests
The controversy surrounding these allegations has sparked significant public debate in Nigeria, with calls for an independent investigation into the matter. Prominent figures, including former Senate President Bukola Saraki, have expressed that the issues raised should not be taken lightly.
On the same day of the dismissal, protests erupted in Abuja, with demonstrators split between those supporting Akpabio and those advocating for Uduaghan, chanting, “Akpabio must go.” Uduaghan officially submitted her petition during Wednesday’s plenary session, having been permitted to do so by Akpabio himself.
Before his role as Senate President, Akpabio served as the governor of Akwa Ibom state for eight years and was also the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs under former President Muhammadu Buhari.