Senator Natasha’s Petition Against Akpabio: Details Emerge
By Usman A Harande
A petition filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio has shed light on serious allegations of sexual harassment, abuse of office, and obstruction of legislative duties. The petition, dated March 4, 2025, accuses Akpabio of making inappropriate advances towards Akpoti-Uduaghan during a visit to his residence in Akwa Ibom on December 8, 2023.
Allegations of Inappropriate Conduct
According to the petition, Akpabio allegedly made inappropriate remarks and suggested that Akpoti-Uduaghan should “spend quality moment” with him, despite being accompanied by her husband. Furthermore, Akpoti-Uduaghan alleges that Akpabio invited her to his private residence in Abuja in May 2024, under the pretext of discussing legislative matters, where he made inappropriate comments.
Pattern of Intimidation and Abuse of Office
The petition also references an incident on the Senate floor where Akpabio allegedly called Akpoti-Uduaghan a “night club girl.” Although he later apologized, Akpoti-Uduaghan asserts that the remark was part of a broader pattern of intimidation. Additionally, she accuses Akpabio of abusing his office to orchestrate her removal as Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Local Content.
Previous Allegations of Sexual Harassment
The petition further references previous allegations of sexual harassment against Akpabio, including those made by Dr. Joi Nunieh, the former Acting Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), in 2020. Akpoti-Uduaghan argues that such behavior should not be condoned and calls for a thorough investigation.
Petition Dismissed by Senate Committee
However, the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions dismissed the petition, describing it as “dead on arrival” ¹. Akpabio has denied the allegations, stating that he has always upheld respect for women.
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