Senate President Godswill Akpabio has rejected calls for his resignation over sexual harassment allegations leveled against him by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Speaking during Thursday’s Senate plenary, Akpabio reaffirmed his commitment to legislative duties as the chamber passed four key tax reform bills.
Addressing the matter publicly, Akpabio described the allegations as unfounded and politically driven. Responding to Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central), he said, “Who told you I was going to step down? Those expecting the Senate to demand my resignation can now see we remain focused on our responsibilities.”
He underscored the importance of due process, insisting that serious accusations must be backed by evidence. Referencing judicial missteps in the US, Akpabio warned against the damaging effects of false claims.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, was suspended on March 6 following a dispute with Senate leadership. She later alleged her suspension was orchestrated by Akpabio after she rejected his sexual advances.
She reiterated her accusations at the Inter-Parliamentary Union meeting at the United Nations, urging global scrutiny of the situation.
Her suspension included several punitive measures: a six-month ban from Senate functions, loss of salary, and withdrawal of security details.
Tensions escalated recently when Akpoti-Uduaghan released a satirical video on social media, mockingly apologizing to Akpabio “for not allowing him to have his way.” Widely viewed as sarcastic, the video stirred renewed controversy.
In response, Akpabio’s legal team, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Kehinde Ogunwumiju, filed a motion at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The motion seeks to have the video and related posts taken down, citing a court order prohibiting public commentary from either party during ongoing litigation. The team is also demanding a public apology in two national dailies and an affidavit confirming compliance.
Although Akpoti-Uduaghan has contested the disciplinary actions against her, the Senate moved ahead with her suspension. Justice Binta Nyako, overseeing the legal case, had previously issued a gag order on both parties.
As the legal battle unfolds, the clash between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan continues to dominate headlines, with both sides firmly standing by their positions.