The Traffic

Akpabio Fights Back Against Sexual Harassment Allegations

By Achimi Muktar

The political arena was thrown into fresh controversy as Senate President Godswill Akpabio forcefully denied allegations of sexual harassment leveled against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. As the scandal dominated the headlines, Akpabio insisted he had "the highest regard for women" and dismissed the claims as false and baseless.

In a dramatic turn of events, the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions threw out Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition against Akpabio, citing procedural irregularities. But the rejection did little to quell the tension surrounding the high-profile case, especially with a delegation of United Kingdom parliamentarians, led by British MP Kate Osamor, witnessing the proceedings.

A Showdown in the Senate

The session was marked by confusion as Akpabio insisted on a public investigation into the allegations against him—despite opposition from Senate leaders who pointed out that the petition violated chamber rules. Attempts by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele and Chief Whip Tahir Monguno to convince Akpabio to drop the probe failed, as the Senate President refused to allow a closed-door session, citing the presence of international and local observers.

Speaking firmly on the allegations, Akpabio stated:

"In February 2025, there were spurious allegations circulating in the media that I harassed Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. I want to make it categorically clear: at no time did I ever attempt any form of sexual harassment."

He highlighted his strong background of respect for women, crediting his late mother for instilling such values in him. He further noted that, as a former governor, he was once honored as the "Most Gender-Friendly Governor in Nigeria."

Akpabio urged the public to await the court’s decision, cautioning against what he described as "media trials and social media conclusions."

The Legal and Political Backlash

As the Senate debated the allegations, a Federal High Court in Abuja issued an interim injunction restraining the Senate from probing Akpoti-Uduaghan over alleged misconduct during a plenary session. However, the Senate Ethics Committee disregarded the court order and proceeded with deliberations.

The committee, chaired by Senator Neda Imasuen, ruled that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition was "dead on arrival" because Senate rules prohibit a senator from submitting a petition personally signed by themselves.

"There are three senators from Kogi State. Any one of them could have presented this petition on her behalf. But because she signed it herself, it cannot stand," Imasuen declared.

Protests and Political Fallout

The controversy spilled outside the Senate chamber as supporters of Akpoti-Uduaghan staged a protest at the National Assembly entrance. However, they were swiftly dispersed by security forces using tear gas. Led by her lawyer, Victor Giwa, the protesters wielded banners and chanted slogans condemning what they described as a cover-up.

Meanwhile, an opposing group, Kogi Central Concerned Stakeholders, issued an open letter apologizing to Akpabio and distancing themselves from Akpoti-Uduaghan’s accusations.

Peter Obi Weighs In

Former Anambra State governor and 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, criticized the political drama, calling it a distraction from Nigeria’s pressing issues.

"Instead of addressing economic hardship, insecurity, and poverty, our leaders are caught up in scandals, political fights, and court cases. The government should focus on real solutions, not distractions," Obi stated.

Obi also dismissed reports that he had criticized a Supreme Court ruling on the Rivers State political crisis, clarifying that his comments were about the broader dysfunction in Nigeria’s political system.

What’s Next?

With Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition dismissed by the Senate and legal battles still looming, the case remains a political hot potato. While Akpabio stands firm in his defense, the controversy surrounding his alleged conduct continues to generate heated debates, both within the corridors of power and among the Nigerian public.

As the court prepares to weigh in, one question lingers: Is this a case of political victimization or a scandal waiting to unravel?