Senator Akpanbio Sexual Harassment Scandal.
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In recent weeks, Nigeria’s political landscape has been engulfed by a scandal involving allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central. The unfolding events have sparked widespread debate, drawing reactions from political figures, civil society organizations, and the general public. This comprehensive analysis delves into the allegations, responses from involved parties, public reactions, and the broader implications for Nigeria’s political and social fabric.
Senator Akpanbio Sexual Harassment Scandal: The Allegations
On February 28, 2025, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan appeared on Arise Television, where she accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of making inappropriate sexual advances towards her. She recounted an incident that allegedly occurred on December 8, 2023, during a visit to Akpabio’s residence in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. According to Akpoti-Uduaghan, Akpabio took her by the hand, led her around his house, and made sexual advances in the presence of her husband. She further claimed that her refusal to acquiesce to these advances led to subsequent victimization, including the obstruction of her legislative motions, particularly those concerning the Ajaokuta Steel Complex.
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Responses from the Akpabio Family
In the wake of these allegations, Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, the wife of the Senate President, publicly defended her husband. She dismissed the accusations as baseless and an attempt to tarnish her husband’s reputation. Addressing journalists on February 29, 2025, Mrs. Akpabio stated that her husband is disciplined and would not indulge in such acts. She further threatened legal action against Akpoti-Uduaghan for defaming her husband.
Senator Akpanbio Sexual Harassment Scandal: Legal Actions Initiated
Following her public defense, Mrs. Akpabio filed multiple lawsuits against Akpoti-Uduaghan at the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Abuja. She alleged defamation and violation of fundamental human rights, seeking N1 billion in damages and a public apology in national newspapers. In a separate suit, she demanded N250 billion in compensation, claiming that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s statements caused emotional distress and fear for her and her children’s safety.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Stance and Legal Preparedness
Standing firm on her allegations, Akpoti-Uduaghan, through her lawyer Victor Giwa, asserted that she possesses concrete evidence to substantiate her claims. In a letter dated March 1, 2025, addressed to Mrs. Akpabio, Giwa cautioned her to stay out of the matter and allow the Senate President to defend himself. The letter emphasized that the allegations were personal to Akpabio and that he should respond to them himself.
Support from Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Husband
Emmanuel Uduaghan, the husband of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and a traditional chief of the Warri Kingdom in Delta State, publicly expressed support for his wife. He confirmed that his wife had confided in him about her interactions with Akpabio, whom he considered a family friend. Uduaghan stated that he approached the matter with maturity and responsibility, meeting with Akpabio to discuss the situation privately. He recounted that he personally met with the Senate President and respectfully urged him to extend the courtesy and respect his wife deserves, while also honoring the friendship between them. Despite this intervention, he noted that his wife continued to express concerns about harassment from Akpabio.
Reactions from Public Figures
The allegations have elicited reactions from various public figures, reflecting the gravity of the situation. Former Senate President Bukola Saraki expressed sadness over the development, emphasizing its negative effect on the integrity and public perception of the Senate. He urged both parties to be mindful of their actions to protect the institution’s integrity.
Similarly, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar called for a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation into the allegations. He stressed the need for accountability and justice, stating that the Nigerian Senate must uphold the highest standards of integrity, particularly in its leadership.
Social Media Discourse
The scandal has dominated social media platforms, with Nigerians expressing diverse opinions. Some users have voiced support for Akpoti-Uduaghan, commending her courage in speaking out, while others have defended Akpabio, cautioning against premature judgment without concrete evidence. The discourse reflects broader societal concerns about sexual harassment, power dynamics, and the treatment of women in politics.
Protests and Demonstrations
In Akwa Ibom State, dozens of women staged a protest against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan following her accusation of sexual harassment against Senate President Akpabio. The protesters, chanting solidarity songs, expressed their displeasure over what they described as an insult to the Senate President, whom they referred to as their son. They warned Akpoti-Uduaghan against making further allegations that could tarnish Akpabio’s reputation. Holding placards with messages such as “As Nigerian women, we respect our men and our tradition” and “Respect the office of the Senate President,” the women called for an end to what they termed the denigration of the Senate President’s office.
Calls for Investigation
Civil society organizations have also weighed in on the matter. The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria has scheduled a press conference to address the allegations and advocate for a thorough investigation. They emphasized the importance of addressing such serious accusations to uphold the integrity of public offices and ensure justice for all parties involved.
