Atiku asks senate to probe Natasha Akpoti’s sexual harassment claim against Akpabio

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has asked President Bola Tinubu and the upper legislative chamber to investigate the sexual harassment allegations made by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Earlier on Friday, Akpoti-Uduaghan, the senator representing Kogi central, alleged that her ordeal in the senate started because she rejected Akpabio’s sexual advances.

The Kogi senator alleged that Akpabio made passes at her when she and her husband visited his home in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state, for the senate president’s birthday celebration in December 2023.

Reacting to the controversy in a post on his X page on Friday, Atiku said such allegations are “grave and should not be dismissed without a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation.”

The former vice-president added that the allegations require a credible and impartial probe to protect the integrity of the Nigerian senate.

He said the senate represents the voice of the people, noting that those in leadership positions must uphold the highest standards of integrity and respect for public office.

“As the third most powerful figure in the country, the Senate President should embody unimpeachable character,” the post reads.

“Sexual harassment in the workplace is a significant barrier to women’s advancement and, by extension, the nation’s progress.

“Allegations of such misconduct should never be simply dismissed, particularly when they involve a public officer with immense power, influence, and responsibility.

“As the chief presiding officer of the Upper Chamber, the Senate President has a duty to champion the protection and empowerment of Nigerian women through legislation—not to be the subject of allegations that undermine those very principles.

“The handling of this matter will send a strong message about Nigeria’s commitment to justice, accountability, and the inclusion of women in governance.

“I urge the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Senate itself to take these allegations seriously by ensuring a credible, transparent, and independent investigation.

“With only four women currently serving in the Senate, it is imperative that we foster an environment where female legislators can serve without fear of harassment or intimidation.

“This moment demands careful and principled action to uphold the integrity of our institutions and ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of gender, is treated with dignity and respect.”

On Friday, Ekaette Akpabio, the wife of the senate president, accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of telling lies about her husband.

Ekaette described Akpabio as a “disciplined and responsible” man who will not disrespect her and their children.

Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan have been making the headlines following a heated argument at the senate over a change in seating arrangements on February 20.