Natasha: I’ve Never Harassed Any Woman, My Mother Raised Me Well — Akpabio

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has strongly denied the sexual harassment allegations brought against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central in the Senate.

Akpabio made his denial on Wednesday during a plenary session, which followed a one-week break. The Senate President stated, “At no time did I ever harass any woman. I was raised very well by my late single mother, and I have always upheld respect for women. I was even awarded the most gender-friendly governor in Nigeria.”

He further emphasized that he had been receiving calls regarding the allegations since February 25 and was fully aware of the public discussions on social media. Akpabio urged Nigerians and the media to refrain from making any judgments or conclusions until the matter is decided by the courts.

In response, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who had previously made the allegations, rose during the session and submitted a formal petition under Order 40, accusing the Senate President of sexual harassment and abuse of office. She then requested that the petition be officially submitted to the Senate for further consideration.

The Senate promptly referred the petition to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct for a detailed investigation into the matter.