Embattled senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has filed a petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, alleging sexual harassment, political retaliation, and abuse of office.
In the sworn affidavit attached to the petition, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan claims that Akpabio made unsolicited advances and inappropriate suggestions towards her during a visit to his home in Akwa Ibom State in December 2023. She alleges that this happened in the presence of her husband.
Following her rejection of these advances, the senator claims that Akpabio deliberately obstructed her legislative motions, including a key motion on the revitalization of Ajaokuta Steel Company.
According to her, the motion had been listed multiple times but was ignored by the Senate President.
Beyond the allegations of sexual harassment, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan accuses Akpabio of using his position to undermine her role in national projects.
She alleges that after a presidential directive to establish mini-Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) projects in her senatorial district, Akpabio orchestrated her removal as Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board.
The petition raises serious concerns about abuse of power within the Senate, with observers calling for an independent investigation into the matter. As of now, Senate President Akpabio has not publicly responded to the allegations.
