“Akpabio Denies Sexual Harassment Allegations, Calls Claims ‘Baseless’ Amid Senate Drama”

A Heated Exchange in the Senate
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has vehemently denied allegations of sexual harassment made against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The controversy, which has dominated headlines for days, reached a new level of intensity on Wednesday as the Senate resumed plenary after a week-long recess.

Akpabio, addressing the allegations directly, dismissed them as unfounded, while Akpoti-Uduaghan stood her ground, formally submitting a petition against him on the Senate floor. The dramatic exchange has further fueled the ongoing debate about accountability and gender dynamics in Nigerian politics.

Akpabio’s Defense: ‘I Respect Women’
In his response to the allegations, Akpabio categorically denied any wrongdoing. “At no time did I ever harass any woman,” he declared. “I was raised very well by my late single mother, and I have always upheld respect for women.”

He went on to highlight his track record as a gender-friendly leader, stating, “I was even awarded the most gender-friendly governor in Nigeria.” Akpabio’s remarks were an attempt to counter the serious accusations and reaffirm his commitment to gender equality.

Natasha’s Bold Move: Submitting the Petition
Undeterred by Akpabio’s denial, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan raised the issue under Order 40, formally accusing the Senate President of sexual harassment and abuse of office. She requested permission to step forward and present the petition to the chamber, a move that underscored her determination to seek justice.

The Senate, after some deliberation, referred the petition to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct. The committee has been directed to review the matter “as soon as practicable,” setting the stage for a potentially explosive investigation.

The Bigger Picture: A Test for the Senate
This high-stakes confrontation is more than just a personal dispute—it’s a test of the Senate’s commitment to transparency and accountability. How the upper chamber handles the allegations will have far-reaching implications for its credibility and the broader fight against gender-based harassment in Nigerian politics.

The referral of the petition to the ethics committee is a step forward, but many are watching closely to see if the investigation will be thorough and impartial.

Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Nigerian Politics
As the Senate grapples with this controversy, the stakes couldn’t be higher. For Akpabio, the allegations threaten to tarnish his legacy and leadership. For Natasha, it’s a fight for justice and accountability. And for the Nigerian public, it’s a moment to demand greater transparency and fairness from their elected officials.

The coming days and weeks will be crucial as the ethics committee begins its review. One thing is certain: this is a defining moment for Nigerian politics, and the outcome will resonate far beyond the walls of the Senate.