Senate President Godswill Akpabio has strongly denied allegations of sexual harassment made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central in the National Assembly.
The accusations surfaced during Akpoti-Uduaghan’s interview on Arise TV, where she claimed that Akpabio’s alleged misconduct marked the beginning of her challenges in the Senate. The controversy comes shortly after a heated exchange in the Senate, during which Akpabio ordered her removal from the chamber over a dispute regarding her seat.
Akpabio’s Camp Calls Allegations False
Reacting to the claims, Akpabio’s media consultant, Kenny Okulogbo, dismissed them as “tissues of lies.” Speaking to The PUNCH, he alleged that Akpoti-Uduaghan was upset after being removed as chairperson of the Senate Committee on Local Content.
“All that Senator Natasha said are lies. She is just angry about losing her committee position,” Okulogbo stated, adding that Akpabio would soon release an official response.
Kogi Senators Condemn Natasha’s Outburst
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s colleagues from Kogi State, Senators Jibrin Isah (Kogi East) and Karimi Sunday Steve (Kogi West), have criticized her confrontation with Akpabio.
They explained that her seat was reassigned due to the recent defection of two senators, not as a personal attack against her. While condemning her reaction, they urged Akpabio and Senate leadership to refrain from taking disciplinary action against her and promised to guide her on Senate protocols.
Political Tensions Rise in the Senate
The allegations and the seating dispute have further heightened tensions in the Senate. With Akpabio’s office preparing an official statement, political observers are keenly watching how the situation unfolds.
The controversy underscores the ongoing power struggles within the Senate, raising questions about internal dynamics and political alignments in the legislature.
