The Senate on Wednesday dismissed the sexual harassment petition filed by Kogi Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, calling it “dead on arrival” and a violation of the Senate’s Standing Rules.
Akpoti-Uduaghan had accused Akpabio of making sexual advances toward her during a visit to his residence in December 2023, and further claimed he suggested she “make him happy” to ensure smooth consideration of her motions.
However, Akpabio denied the allegations, asserting that they were “false and baseless,” citing his respect for women and his record as a “gender-friendly governor.”
“The matter is already in court,” Senate Committee Chairman on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, Neda Imasuen, said, explaining that the committee could not entertain her petition while legal proceedings were ongoing.
He further emphasized that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition violated Rule 40 of the Senate Standing Orders, which prohibits Senators from presenting petitions about themselves.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was absent from the committee session, had been invited to present her case but chose not to attend, possibly on the advice of her legal team.
In related developments, the Federal High Court in Abuja issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the National Assembly, demanding justification for why it should not be restrained from probing Akpoti-Uduaghan’s alleged misconduct.
Meanwhile, supporters of Akpoti-Uduaghan held a peaceful protest at the National Assembly, calling for Akpabio’s resignation.
The controversy continues to divide opinion, with some groups publicly dissociating themselves from the Kogi lawmaker’s actions, calling her conduct a source of unnecessary public tension.