The Senate has stated that it will not investigate the sexual harassment allegations leveled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) due to the absence of a formal petition.
Speaking on Arise TV on Monday, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, Senator Yemi Adaramodu (APC, Ekiti South), maintained that the Senate cannot act based on social media trends or verbal claims without an official complaint.
“There is presently no formal matter before the Senate regarding these allegations,” Adaramodu said. “The only issue before the Senate is Senator Natasha’s non-compliance with the standing orders.”
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan had alleged that Akpabio made inappropriate advances towards her during a visit to his residence in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on December 8, 2023. She claimed the Senate President held her hand, led her around his house, and propositioned her while her husband was present. She further alleged that Akpabio suggested she should “make him happy” if she wanted her motions to be prioritized on the Senate floor.
The allegations emerged shortly after the Senate referred Akpoti-Uduaghan to its Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions Committee for disciplinary review, following her standoff with Akpabio over seating arrangements during plenary.
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Akpabio has denied the allegations through his media consultant, Kenny Okulogbo, while his wife, Ekaette Akpabio, also dismissed the claims as baseless.
Addressing the controversy, Adaramodu reaffirmed that all lawmakers must adhere to the Senate’s standing orders, which grant the Senate President authority to assign seats to members. He refuted claims that Akpabio could intimidate senators by denying them recognition, insisting that all lawmakers are equal in the chambers.
The matter continues to spark debate, but without a formal petition, the Senate insists it will not open an investigation.