Akpabio Dismisses Sexual Harassment Allegations, Senate Refers Case to Ethics Committee

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has forcefully denied allegations of sexual harassment leveled against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

Reacting to the claims during Wednesday’s plenary session—marking the Senate’s return from a week-long recess—Akpabio refuted the accusations, stating unequivocally that he had never engaged in such misconduct.

“At no time did I ever harass any woman,” he asserted. “I was raised by my late single mother, and I have always upheld deep respect for women. I was even honored as Nigeria’s most gender-friendly governor.”

However, moments after Akpabio’s rebuttal, Akpoti-Uduaghan invoked Order 40 to formally accuse the Senate President of sexual harassment and abuse of office. She sought permission to submit a petition detailing her claims before the chamber.

Following deliberations, the Senate directed the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct to examine the petition, mandating a thorough review at the earliest opportunity.