Supporters of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and Senate President Godswill Akpabio clashed outside the National Assembly on Wednesday in a heated protest.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters demanded Akpabio’s resignation over allegations of sexual harassment, while pro-Akpabio demonstrators called for an apology from the senator.
As Akpoti-Uduaghan arrived at the scene near the Mopol gate, her supporters erupted in cheers, waving placards that read, “Akpabio must go” and “We stand with Senator Natasha.” One protester emphasized, “We are demanding a thorough investigation into these serious allegations.”
In contrast, the rival group, the United Women for Good Governance, demonstrated their support for Akpabio, holding banners that read, “Apologize to the Senate President” and “Akpabio treated Natasha as a daughter.” Their spokesperson stated, “Akpabio has been nothing but kind to Natasha, and these allegations are baseless.”
Earlier, police used tear gas to disperse Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters, forcing them to retreat. However, they later regrouped at the Unity Fountain to continue their protest.