On Tuesday, March 13, Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio criticized Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) for her actions, stating that the controversy surrounding her allegations could discourage future political leaders from appointing women to high-ranking positions.
Speaking during plenary, Akpabio expressed concern that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s handling of the situation could have long-term consequences for women’s inclusion in governance. He criticized her for initially submitting her petition to the Senate and then bypassing the chamber to take the matter to court. Akpabio noted that Akpoti-Uduaghan escalated the issue internationally without allowing proper legal proceedings to take place.
“I am concerned that her actions may create a dangerous precedent,” Akpabio said. “If this continues, it could discourage politicians from appointing women to positions of power.”
Akpabio made comparisons, stating, “If U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris accused President Joe Biden of sexual assault simply for shaking her hand, it would create a precedent where no woman would ever be chosen as vice president again.”
Despite his criticism, Akpabio made a heartfelt plea, urging politicians to continue offering opportunities to women in governance, particularly his four daughters. “The sins of one should not be used to punish others,” he added.
Senate Passes Vote of Confidence in Akpabio
In a related development, the Senate passed a unanimous vote of confidence in Akpabio’s leadership, following the suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan for misconduct and her sexual harassment allegations. The motion, presented by Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central), dismissed any claims that the Senate had ignored the allegations, stressing that the matter was already before the courts.
Bamidele clarified, “At no point between August 2023 and now was the Senate formally informed of any sexual harassment claims. The only issue before the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions was a petition about Akpoti-Uduaghan’s violation of Senate rules.”
Akpabio Condemns International Appeal
Akpabio also condemned Akpoti-Uduaghan’s attempt to take the matter to international bodies, including her address to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in New York. He accused her of distorting the facts and trying to embarrass Nigeria on the global stage. “She went to Brekete Radio and Arise Television to misrepresent the situation,” Akpabio said. “She has externalized the matter, attempting to present a false narrative at the IPU event.”
In response, Akpabio thanked Rt. Hon. Kafilat Okpara for challenging Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims in New York and urged the international community not to misrepresent Nigeria’s legislative process.
Senate Focuses on Governance
As the matter remains in court, Senate Leader Bamidele emphasized the importance of focusing on governance. “The public interest is high, but we must adhere to our legislative rules and keep our attention on the 2025 budget and national issues,” he said.
The Senate had suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months following a disruptive session where she protested the reassignment of her seat. During the suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan will not participate in Senate activities, and her office will be locked. However, her legislative aides will continue receiving their salaries, as decided by the Senate.
Despite the suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan has reported the matter to the IPU, arguing that the suspension was unjust. The Senate, meanwhile, remains focused on its legislative duties, particularly the implementation of the 2025 budget.
