In a bold response to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has called for an investigation regarding the sexual harassment allegations she brought against him. The senator asserts that she is not the first to raise such claims against Akpabio, urging him to submit to an inquiry to clarify the matter.
In a statement delivered through her lawyer, Victor Giwa, Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized that the Senate President’s remarks, accusing her of traumatizing others with unfounded allegations, are unfounded. She pointed out that a similar accusation was made against Akpabio by Joy Nunieh, the former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission. “If Akpabio makes such a statement, the question anybody will ask is why there are two allegations of sexual harassment against him,” Giwa stated, reinforcing the need for transparency.
Giwa accused Akpabio of using his position to retaliate against Akpoti-Uduaghan after she allegedly rejected his advances. He raised concerns about her treatment within the Senate, questioning whether she has been sidelined from international engagements and forced to self-fund official trips while other senators have their expenses covered.
Despite facing pressure from various stakeholders, including the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Imaan Suleiman, Akpoti-Uduaghan remains steadfast in her legal battle against Akpabio. A mediation meeting is scheduled for next week, as both parties seek a resolution.
In a related statement, Mrs. Funmi Falana SAN, Director of Women Empowerment and Legal Aid, criticized the Senate’s decision to suspend Akpoti-Uduaghan without allowing her to defend herself. She labeled the suspension as a “disgraceful display of power,” asserting that it violates her right to a fair hearing as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.
Falana has threatened to escalate the matter to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee if the Senate does not reverse the suspension. She highlighted that similar past suspensions of senators were declared illegal by the Federal High Court, reinforcing the notion that the Senate’s actions against Akpoti-Uduaghan are not only unjust but potentially unconstitutional.
As this situation unfolds, the implications for both lawmakers and the integrity of the Senate remain significant. The continued discourse around these allegations and the responses from both parties will undoubtedly shape the political landscape in Nigeria.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to Newspot Nigeria.
Share your story or advertise with us: Whatsapp: +2347068606071 Email: info@newspotng.com
