The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions has recommended a six-month suspension for Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central, following her allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
During a plenary session on Thursday, the committee proposed withdrawing her salary and security details. Senator Neda Imasuen, the committee’s chairman, reported that Akpoti-Uduaghan was found guilty of all allegations against her for her failure to appear before the legislative committee to review her conduct.Additionally, Akpoti-Uduaghan is expected to issue a formal apology to the Senate for her actions, which were deemed disrespectful.
The controversy began earlier this year when Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of sexual harassment and abuse of office, claiming her motions regarding the Ajaokuta Steel Company were systematically obstructed.
She further alleged that Akpabio referred to her as a “night club girl” on the Senate floor, a remark for which he later issued an apology.
She formalized her claims in a petition submitted to the Senate.Akpabio has consistently denied all allegations, asserting his respect for women and dismissing any claims of misconduct.
He expressed disappointment in the committee’s recommendation, characterizing the accusations as baseless.
The Senate is set to debate the committee’s report, with discussions anticipated to focus on potential amendments before any final decisions are made. Concerns have been raised regarding Akpoti-Uduaghan’s absence during the committee’s investigation, as she did not attend despite being notified in advance.
As this situation develops, attention is drawn to the Senate’s upcoming discussions that will ultimately determine the fate of the committee’s recommendations.
In related news, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who represents Cross River South, and Senator Steve Karimi from Kogi West (APC) have both commented on the situation, with Karimi offering an apology to Akpabio for having supported Akpoti-Uduaghan for a leadership role. Meanwhile, minority leader Senator Abba Moro from Benue South (PDP) proposed reducing the suspension to three months, arguing that this would suffice to address the issues at hand.
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