Sexual Harassment Allegations: “Akpabio Must Step Aside for Transparent Investigation” – Saraki

Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has called for a transparent investigation into the allegations at the center of the dispute between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

The conflict between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, erupted following a controversial seat re-arrangement in the Senate chamber. Akpoti-Uduaghan strongly opposed her new seating position, claiming it was a deliberate move to suppress her voice.

Tensions escalated on Friday when Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of making sexual advances toward her, both in his office and at his residence in Akwa Ibom. She likened her situation to that of a student being punished for rejecting a lecturer’s advances. The accusation has sparked widespread reactions, including a lawsuit against her by Ekaette Akpabio, the Senate President’s wife. Calls for an investigation into the allegations have also intensified.

Saraki, in a social media post, insisted that the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions must investigate the claims. He urged both Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan to cooperate fully with the committee and present their cases.

Recalling a similar situation during his tenure, Saraki cited a time when he faced allegations of importing an official car without paying customs duties. He voluntarily appeared before the Ethics Committee to clear his name and stepped down from presiding over the Senate when the matter was debated, ensuring a transparent process.

He advised the current Senate leadership to follow this precedent, emphasizing that due process must be upheld. According to Saraki, any wrongdoing should be identified and addressed appropriately, with the correct remedies applied.