Former senator calls for Akpabio to step aside for fair investigation into harassment claim

On Friday, March 14, a former senator, Nicholas Tofowomo, asked Senate President Godswill Akpabio to step aside while a fair investigation takes place into serious accusations of sexual harassment made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

Tofowomo, who used to represent Ondo South, told reporters in Okitipupa that Akpabio “cannot preside over his own case.” He believes this is important to ensure that the investigation is fair and impartial.

Earlier, the Senate had suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, for six months starting March 6. This came after a disagreement between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio over seating arrangements during a Senate session.

Akpoti-Uduaghan had made accusations of sexual harassment against Akpabio and took her case to the Senate. However, the Senate rejected her claims.

Tofowomo, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), stressed that his opinion wasn’t based on political loyalty, but on the importance of following the law. He explained that “the National Assembly should be a place where laws are obeyed and not flouted.”

He added, “The National Assembly makes laws and implements such laws on Nigerian citizens and it must be bound by the laws.”

Tofowomo stated that sexual harassment is a very serious issue. He believes that Akpabio should step aside while an independent investigation happens, with his deputy taking over Senate matters until a decision is made. “Let the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions handle the investigation,” he said.

He also mentioned that Akpoti-Uduaghan had taken her case to the United Nations, and that it could harm Nigeria’s reputation if it’s not handled carefully. “We shouldn’t make ourselves and our country a laughing stock among the nations,” he added.

The former senator said he disagreed with the Senate’s decision to suspend Akpoti-Uduaghan, pointing out that she was not given a proper warning before being suspended. He also said, “Women should be treated with courtesy and respect.”

Finally, Tofowomo urged President Bola Tinubu to get involved in the matter. He emphasized that this case is now a serious international issue and must be handled with great care.