Senator Godswill Akpabio has firmly denied allegations of sexual harassment made by Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, insisting that he has never behaved inappropriately with any woman. In a strong and measured statement during a recent plenary session, he said, “I am aware that the matters are in court, however, I would like to state clearly that at no time did I ever attempt any sexual harassment on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan or any other woman.” His comments come in response to a petition formally submitted by Mrs. Akpoti-Uduaghan, which accuses him of sexual harassment, abuse of office, and obstruction of her legislative duties.
The allegations were brought to public attention after Mrs. Akpoti-Uduaghan claimed in an interview that, during a visit to his residence in Uyo on December 8, 2023, Akpabio made inappropriate advances toward her in the presence of her husband, Emmanuel Uduaghan. According to her account, he took her by the hand, led her around his home, and implied that she should “take care of him” if she wanted her motions to receive favorable consideration on the Senate floor. These claims, however, have been met with a robust denial from Akpabio. He reiterated that he has always held women in the highest regard, a principle instilled in him by his late mother, who raised him and his siblings single-handedly during difficult times. “I and my siblings were raised very well by my late mother. I have the highest regard for women, and having four beautiful daughters only reinforces that,” he declared passionately.
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This is not the first time that Senator Akpabio has faced sexual harassment allegations. In 2020, Joy Nunieh, the former acting managing director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, accused him of sexual harassment during his tenure as Minister of Niger Delta Affairs. At that time, Akpabio categorically denied the allegations, labeling them as “false, malicious, and libelous.” Now, confronted by the new petition from Mrs. Akpoti-Uduaghan, he once again maintained his innocence and urged the public to allow the judicial process to take its course.
The Senate President’s denial was delivered during a session attended by several senators and international observers, a fact that added to the gravity of the proceedings. In his address, Akpabio expressed gratitude for the support he had received from his colleagues, noting that numerous phone calls of solidarity and prayers had been a source of strength. He stressed that while he recognized the seriousness of the allegations, he believed that the evidence would show that his conduct had always been above reproach. “I urge all Nigerians, especially the media and social media users, to await the court’s decision and not jump to conclusions on matters of mere allegations,” he said.
In reaction to the petition, some senators have voiced their opposition. Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno cited Order 40(4), which mandates that any matter already in court should not be debated openly in the Senate. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele also suggested that the petition should be dismissed and recommended that the issue be addressed in a closed-door session to maintain decorum. There were even questions about the credibility of Mrs. Akpoti-Uduaghan, with Ekiti North Senator Cyril Fasuyi recalling that she had previously accused former Ekiti Governor Kayode Fayemi of similar misconduct. This sentiment has contributed to a divided atmosphere in the Senate regarding how to handle the allegations.
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Despite the controversy, Akpabio’s wife, Ekaette Akpabio, has defended her husband. She has publicly absolved him of any wrongdoing and taken legal action by filing two defamation lawsuits against Mrs. Akpoti-Uduaghan, seeking N350 billion in damages for harm to her husband’s reputation. The lawsuits underscore the seriousness with which the Akpabio family views the allegations, emphasizing their belief that these claims are baseless and intended to tarnish his public image.
Former political figures have also weighed in on the matter. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure that the investigation into the sexual harassment allegations is independent and transparent. Similarly, former Senate President Bukola Saraki advised Akpabio to subject himself to an open investigation to ensure fairness and to dispel any lingering doubts about his conduct. Emmanuel Uduaghan, the husband of the petitioner, confirmed that his wife had confided in him about her troubling interactions with Akpabio, adding a personal dimension to the case that has stirred significant public interest.
Throughout his defense, Akpabio emphasized his longstanding commitment to gender inclusivity. He recalled that during his tenure as the Governor of Akwa Ibom State from 2007 to 2015, he had received several awards for being “the most gender-friendly governor” in Nigeria. This recognition, he argued, was evidence of his respect for women and his dedication to promoting gender equality. “I have always prioritized respect and fairness, and my record speaks for itself,” he said, urging Nigerians to look at his past achievements as proof of his character.
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The case has far-reaching implications beyond the personal reputations of those involved. In a political landscape already fraught with tension, the handling of these allegations is seen as a test of the Senate’s ability to manage sensitive issues fairly and transparently. It also has the potential to impact public trust in political leaders during a time when accountability is in high demand. Many observers worry that if allegations of sexual harassment are not addressed openly and justly, it could set a dangerous precedent, eroding the ethical standards expected of public officials.
The petition filed by Mrs. Akpoti-Uduaghan has not yet led to a conclusive resolution, as it has been referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions for further investigation. While the committee works behind closed doors, the public remains divided. Some support Mrs. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s call for accountability, arguing that no one should be above scrutiny, while others view the allegations as politically motivated attacks designed to weaken a prominent figure in Nigerian politics.
In the midst of the unfolding drama, the international community has also taken notice. Observers from various organizations have highlighted the case as part of a broader discussion about the treatment of women in political office and the importance of maintaining high ethical standards in leadership. The case is being closely monitored by human rights groups and international watchdogs, who insist on a fair and transparent process.
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For many in Nigeria, the issue is deeply personal. The allegations have sparked passionate debates on social media and in local communities, where citizens express their views on what is acceptable behavior from a public official. Some have called for immediate action and a thorough investigation, while others caution against premature judgments based on unverified claims. Amidst this polarized environment, the call for due process is louder than ever.
Senator Akpabio’s stance is clear—he denies all allegations and insists on the integrity of the judicial process. He has urged Nigerians to withhold judgment until the courts have thoroughly examined the evidence and delivered a verdict. His appeal to wait for the court’s decision is intended to ensure that public opinion is not swayed by incomplete or biased information. “I have always respected the rule of law, and I trust that justice will prevail,” he stated.
As the investigation continues, the case serves as a reminder of the challenges facing Nigeria’s political system. It highlights the need for robust mechanisms to address allegations of misconduct and to hold public officials accountable. It also underscores the importance of maintaining public confidence in institutions that are supposed to safeguard the rights and dignity of all citizens.
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The coming weeks will be critical as the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions examines the evidence and hears from both sides. The outcome of this investigation could have significant repercussions, not only for Senator Akpabio’s career but also for the broader political climate in Nigeria. The case is already setting the stage for heated debates on the role of personal conduct in public service and the measures necessary to protect the integrity of political institutions.
In conclusion, as the allegations continue to stir controversy and as the petition moves through the legislative process, Senator Akpabio remains steadfast in his denial. He appeals to the principles of fairness and justice, urging the public and his colleagues to let the courts decide. The ultimate resolution of this case will be closely watched, as it is bound to influence public perceptions of leadership and accountability in Nigeria. With emotions running high and political stakes at their peak, this is a defining moment for all involved. The decisions made in the coming days will not only determine the fate of a single political career but could also shape the future of ethical governance in the country.
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