Natasha Akpoti: Atiku demands probe into sexual harassment allegation

By John Ogunsemore

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has asked for a thorough investigation into sexual harassment allegations levelled by Senator for Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Atiku made the call in a statement released on Friday.

In a Friday interview with Arise Television, Akpoti-Uduaghan claimed that Akpabio blocked her motions from being heard on the floor of the Senate because she rejected his sexual advances.

She alleged that the Senate President made advances at her when she visited his residence in company of her husband.

“My case is a case of a student being punished by a lecturer for refusing to sleep with him,” the senator stated.

But in a swift reaction through his media consultant, Kenny Okulogbo, Akpabio denied the allegation.

According to him, Akpoti-Uduaghan is angry because she was removed as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content.

Wading into the controversy, Atiku called for a probe to ascertain the truth of the matter.

The former VP said the “serious allegations of sexual harassment, intimidation, and mistreatment” deserved “a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation”.

“The Nigerian Senate represents the voice of the people. Those who serve in it — especially its leadership — must uphold the highest standards of integrity, dignity, and respect, both for their office and for the Nigerian citizens they serve.

“As the third most powerful figure in the country, the Senate President should embody unimpeachable character.

“Sexual harassment in the workplace is a significant barrier to women’s advancement and, by extension, the nation’s progress. Allegations of such misconduct should never be simply dismissed, particularly when they involve a public officer with immense power, influence, and responsibility.

“As the chief presiding officer of the Upper Chamber, the Senate President has a duty to champion the protection and empowerment of Nigerian women through legislation — not to be the subject of allegations that undermine those very principles.

“The handling of this matter will send a strong message about Nigeria’s commitment to justice, accountability, and the inclusion of women in governance,” Atiku said.

He urged the Senate to tackle the matter holistically, noting that “with only four women currently serving in the Senate, it is imperative that we foster an environment where female legislators can serve without fear of harassment or intimidation”.