7th March, 2025 – Kogi, Nigeria

The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions has put forth a recommendation for a six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central. This follows her serious allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. In a plenary session that took place on Thursday, the committee laid out its findings and suggested that both her salary and security services be suspended for the duration of her suspension. The allegations made by Akpoti-Uduaghan earlier this year have sparked ongoing debates within the Senate, with further discussions anticipated in the near future.

The situation intensified when Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of sexual harassment and misuse of his position, claiming that he deliberately hindered her motions, especially those regarding the Ajaokuta Steel Company. Additionally, she alleged that during a Senate session, Akpabio referred to her as a “nightclub girl,” a remark for which he later offered an apology. These claims were formalized in a petition submitted to the Senate by Akpoti-Uduaghan, igniting considerable controversy.

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Senate President Akpabio, however, firmly denies all allegations made by Akpoti-Uduaghan, asserting that he respects women deeply and has never engaged in any misconduct. He expressed his disappointment regarding the committee’s recommendation, labeling the accusations as “baseless” and without merit.

Findings of the Senate Ethics Committee

The committee, led by Senator Neda Imasuen, found Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of violating Senate protocols, particularly for not appearing before the committee when summoned to discuss her conduct. This absence, they noted, worsened the situation and influenced their decision to recommend a suspension.

In tandem with the suspension, the committee has called for Akpoti-Uduaghan to issue a formal apology to the Senate for her actions, which they deemed disrespectful to the institution. Additionally, they have recommended that her salary and security details be suspended for the entire duration of her suspension, further penalizing her for what the committee characterized as misconduct.

Next Steps in the Controversy

The situation took another twist when, during a plenary session, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan resubmitted her sexual harassment petition—this time on behalf of her constituents, led by Zubairu Yakubu. The petition has been referred back to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions for review, with a report expected within four weeks. This move adds complexity to the already contentious dispute, dividing lawmakers sharply on the issue.

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Despite her attempts to push for a review, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s absence during the committee’s investigation has raised significant concerns. She was informed about the committee’s inquiry but opted not to attend, which many believe may have swayed the committee’s recommendation for a six-month suspension. Her unwillingness to engage in the process has been criticized by committee members and others within the Senate.

A Legal Complication

The timing of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s resubmission of her petition has introduced a legal layer to the proceedings. Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno (APC, Borno North) raised a point of order, citing Senate Standing Order 40, and argued that the matter was sub judice, as it pertains to an ongoing court case involving Akpoti-Uduaghan and Ekaette Akpabio, the Senate President’s wife. Monguno contended that the petition should not be considered while the legal issue is still pending in court, complicating the Senate’s handling of the matter.

Despite these legal hurdles, the Senate proceeded with the committee’s recommendations, and discussions continue about the pathway forward. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition remains unresolved, but her failure to attend the committee’s probe, coupled with the findings of guilt, has placed the matter at a critical juncture.

Looking Ahead

As the Senate gears up to discuss the committee’s recommendations, lawmakers are expected to consider potential amendments to the report before making a final decision. The outcome of these discussions will dictate whether the six-month suspension will be enacted and if any further measures will be taken against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.

This case has cast a long shadow over the dynamic between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio, as well as the overall functioning of the Senate. While the Senate President continues to refute the allegations, asserting their lack of merit, Akpoti-Uduaghan stands firm in her assertion that the abuse she faced reflects a broader pattern of misconduct within the Senate.

As developments unfold, many are keenly observing how the Senate will navigate this issue. The controversy has already highlighted serious concerns regarding the treatment of female lawmakers and broader issues of harassment.