Senator Natasha Accuses Senate President Akpabio of Sexual Harassment

#9ja Talks

Akpabio’s Wife Dismisses Claims, Threatens Legal Action Legal Experts Call for Investigation, Emphasizing Burden of Proof on Natasha Reactions from Northern CAN, Senator Kingibe Sagay Labels Allegations a National Embarrassment Odumakin Advocates Zero Tolerance for Harassment and Intimidation FIDA Urges President Tinubu’s Intervention The Nigerian political landscape was rocked by allegations from Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment. The claims have sparked widespread reactions, with stakeholders calling for a thorough investigation. Natasha’s Allegations Speaking on Arise Television, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central under the People's Democratic Party (PDP), detailed an encounter with Akpabio on December 8, 2023, during a pre-birthday event at his residence in Uyo. She recounted that Akpabio held her hand while leading her through his home, making comments suggesting he expected special attention from her. She further alleged that after repeatedly attempting to bring a motion regarding corruption at the Ajaokuta Steel Company to the Senate floor, Akpabio told her: “Natasha, I am the Chief Presiding Officer of the Senate. You can enjoy a whole lot if you take care of me and make me happy.” She likened her predicament to that of a student being punished for refusing a professor’s advances. Akpabio’s Wife Responds

Ekaette Akpabio, the wife of the Senate President, strongly refuted the allegations, calling them a figment of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s imagination. She emphasized her husband's disciplined nature and longstanding commitment to women's inclusion in government. Mrs. Akpabio also stated that she was present at their family residence on the date in question and vowed to pursue legal action against Akpoti-Uduaghan for defamation. Public Reactions Legal Experts Weigh In Legal professionals have urged for an independent probe into the allegations. While acknowledging the burden of proof rests on Senator Natasha, they insist that such claims should not be dismissed outright without investigation. Sagay: A National Embarrassment Professor Itse Sagay, former Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption (PACAC), described the situation as deeply embarrassing. He pointed out that in developed nations, public officials facing such accusations would typically step down pending investigation. However, he questioned whether Nigeria has evolved to that standard. Odumakin: Zero Tolerance for Harassment Women’s rights activist Dr. Joe Odumakin called for serious attention to the allegations. She referenced past accusations against Akpabio, including claims by former Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Acting Managing Director Joy Nunieh in 2020. Odumakin urged the Senate to ensure a harassment-free environment for its members. Women’s Groups Speak Out The Ojo Women Action for Political Actualisation condemned Akpabio’s alleged actions and expressed solidarity with Senator Natasha. Convener Oluyomi Coker reminded the Senate President of his responsibilities to women, stating that men in power must exercise fairness and sensitivity when engaging with female colleagues. Calls for Presidential Intervention The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) has called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and ensure a transparent investigation. They stress the importance of setting a precedent for accountability at all levels of governance. As reactions continue to pour in, many await the next course of action regarding the allegations against the Senate President.