Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, alleging that he obstructed her legislative motions after she rejected his advances.
During an interview with Arise Television on Friday, Akpoti-Uduaghan recounted an encounter at Akpabio’s residence in Uyo on December 8, 2023. She claimed he attempted to isolate her during a house tour and later suggested that she could benefit politically if she “made him happy.”
She further alleged that her motions, particularly one concerning corruption at the Ajaokuta Steel Company, were repeatedly sidelined by the Senate President.
“I listed this motion five times, and it was only on the sixth attempt that it appeared on the order paper,” she stated.
In addition, she accused Akpabio of orchestrating a last-minute change of her Senate seat without prior notice, describing the move as an intimidation tactic.
Responding to the allegations, Akpabio’s media consultant, Kenny Okulogbo, dismissed them as false, suggesting that Akpoti-Uduaghan was lashing out due to her removal as Chair of the Senate Committee on Local Content.
“She is just angry because she was removed,” he said, adding that an official statement would be released soon.
The allegations have sparked discussions on power dynamics and gender relations within the Nigerian Senate, with many awaiting Akpabio’s formal response.
