Senate President's Alleged Harassment Case Dismissed Amid Calls for Inquiry

Nigeria's Senate President Godswill Akpabio faces serious allegations of sexual harassment from Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, but the ethics committee dismissed her petition citing procedural violations. Calls for a thorough, independent investigation continue amid public debate.

The petition filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, alleging sexual harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, has been dismissed by the ethics committee. Akpabio denied the allegations and described them as unfounded. The committee cited procedural violations, stating the petition should not have been signed solely by Uduaghan but rather endorsed by another senator, thus violating Senate rules. Akpabio has pushed back against the claims, asserting that he respects women and denies any wrongdoing.

Uduaghan specifically accused Akpabio of making unwanted advances during a visit to his residence and suggested he had implied she must "take care of him" to have her legislative motions treated favorably. In juxtaposition, Akpabio argued he was raised with values that respect women, claiming recognition as Nigeria's most gender-friendly governor.

Social media reactions and protests erupted in Abuja, with conflicting demonstrations supporting both figures. Renowned politicians, including former Senate President Bukola Saraki, have weighed in, deeming the allegations too serious to overlook without a proper investigation. The spotlight is on Akpabio, who has held significant political positions, including the governorship of Akwa Ibom state and ministerial roles before taking the Senate presidency. As discussions unfold, the call for external scrutiny grows louder amidst widespread debate on the implications of the claims.