Senate President Godswill Akpabio has denied allegations of sexual harassment leveled against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central.
Speaking during plenary on Wednesday, March 5, Akpabio dismissed the claims, stating that he has never harassed Akpoti-Uduaghan or any other woman.
“I did not harass Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan sexually, and I have never harassed any woman in my life,” he declared.
The Senate President emphasized his deep respect for women, attributing it to his upbringing by a single mother.
“My late mother, who raised me and my siblings under difficult conditions, taught us to respect women. Even after her passing in 2000, I still get emotional remembering her. I also have four daughters, and I would never harass any woman,” he added.
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Akpabio further highlighted his track record on gender inclusion, recalling that he was recognized as the Most Gender-Friendly Governor in Nigeria during his tenure as Akwa Ibom State governor from 2007 to 2015.
He urged Nigerians and the media to allow due process to take its course, stating, “Let us wait for the court’s decision and not jump to conclusions over mere allegations.”
Meanwhile, the Senate rejected a petition submitted by Akpoti-Uduaghan on the alleged harassment claims.
Although Akpabio initially moved to refer the petition to the relevant committee, some senators opposed it, arguing that it was sub judice and violated Senate rules.
Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Tahir Monguno and Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele led the opposition, citing procedural violations. Monguno pointed out that Senate rules prohibit deliberating on matters already in court and accepting petitions signed by a senator.
Bamidele echoed this sentiment, stating, “We cannot accept the petition based on emotional considerations, even if it involves the Senate President.”
The rejection of the petition led to a brief rowdy session before normal proceedings resumed.
