Ola Akinwunmi
The Nigerian Senate has announced that it cannot proceed with an investigation into sexual harassment allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, citing the absence of a formal petition.
Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu (APC, Ekiti South) emphasized that the legislative body requires an official complaint to initiate any probe. He stated, “There is no formal petition before the Senate regarding the sexual harassment allegation against the Senate President.”
This clarification follows public accusations by Akpoti-Uduaghan, who alleged that Akpabio made unsolicited advances towards her during a visit to his residence in Akwa Ibom. She claimed that these incidents have led to ongoing harassment, including the reassignment of her seat to a less prominent location in the Senate chamber.
In response to these allegations, Akpabio’s media aide, Eseme Eyiboh, noted that Akpoti-Uduaghan has not lodged any official complaint with the Senate, police, or any legal body. He remarked, “There is no petition, either to the police, court, or Senate regarding sexual harassment. It is just somebody exercising the right to public communication, that is, freedom of expression.”
The situation has garnered attention from various political figures. Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar described the allegations as “grave” and called for a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation.
Similarly, former First Lady of Ondo State, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, urged Akpabio to step down to allow for an unbiased inquiry, criticizing his wife’s involvement in the matter as an attempt to deflect responsibility.
Despite these calls, the Senate maintains that it cannot act without a formal petition. Adaramodu reiterated that the Senate does not initiate investigations based on media reports or public statements alone, underscoring the need for due process.
As of now, Akpoti-Uduaghan has not submitted an official complaint. The Senate’s Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions awaits such a filing to commence any investigative proceedings.
The allegations have sparked debates about the treatment of female lawmakers and the mechanisms in place to address such serious claims within Nigeria’s legislative framework. Observers and advocacy groups are closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the integrity of public institutions and ensuring justice for all parties involved.
