Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, has resubmitted a sexual harassment petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio following its initial dismissal by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions.
The petition, presented during Thursday’s plenary session, was filed by Akpoti-Uduaghan’s constituents, led by one Zubairu Yakubu. Addressing the Senate, Akpoti-Uduaghan affirmed that no legal barriers existed to prevent the petition from being accepted.
In response, Senate President Akpabio directed her to formally lay the petition before the Senate.
The matter was subsequently referred to the Ethics Committee, chaired by Senator Neda Imasuen with a mandate to report back within four weeks.
This move comes after a contentious session on Wednesday, during which the Senate Ethics Committee rejected the initial petition, describing it as “dead on arrival.”
The rejection followed a point of order raised by Senate Chief Whip, Senator Mohammed Monguno (APC, Borno North), who argued that the matter could not proceed due to an ongoing court case involving Akpoti-Uduaghan and Ekaette Akpabio, the Senate President’s wife. Monguno further contended that since Akpoti-Uduaghan personally signed the petition, it violated Senate rules.
Despite these objections, the renewed submission has intensified scrutiny on the Senate’s handling of allegations against its leadership. Public reaction has been swift, with various advocacy groups calling for a transparent investigation.
The controversy has also sparked debate on the floor, with senators divided over the appropriateness of revisiting the petition.
Reacting to the development, Akpoti-Uduaghan insisted she is committed to seeking justice. “This is not just about me; it is about ensuring that no woman feels intimidated by any form of abuse or harassment,” she stated.
Meanwhile, Senate President Akpabio has maintained silence on the issue, directing that the matter be addressed through appropriate legislative procedures.
Observers note that the Ethics Committee’s findings could have significant implications for the Senate’s image and the leadership of Akpabio.
The next few weeks are expected to test the Senate’s resolve to handle the matter impartially amid mounting calls for accountability and transparency.
