…Pleads for fairness, says sexual harassment claims should be left to the courts
The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has raised concerns over the recent actions of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central), warning that her approach to addressing allegations might discourage politicians from appointing women to leadership positions in Nigeria.
Speaking during Tuesday’s plenary, Akpabio noted that Akpoti-Uduaghan had initially brought her complaint to the Senate but later took it to court and then escalated it to the international community.
He cautioned that such moves could set a dangerous precedent.
“Imagine if U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris accused President Joe Biden of sexual harassment just for guiding her through the White House. That kind of situation would make leaders hesitant to appoint women in the future,” Akpabio remarked.
Despite his criticism, he urged politicians not to let one person’s actions affect opportunities for other women, including his four daughters.
“I have four daughters, and I appeal to leaders to continue supporting women. The mistake of one should not punish the many,” he added.
Senate Stands with Akpabio, Passes Vote of Confidence
Following Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension over misconduct and her sexual harassment claims against Akpabio, the Senate unanimously passed a vote of confidence in his leadership.
The motion, raised by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central), stressed that the case was already in court and urged Nigerians to disregard misleading narratives.
Bamidele also clarified that the Senate never received a formal complaint of sexual harassment, emphasizing that the only petition before the Ethics Committee was about Akpoti-Uduaghan’s alleged breach of Senate rules.
Akpabio Condemns Appeal to International Bodies
Akpabio criticized Akpoti-Uduaghan for taking the matter to international platforms, particularly the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in New York.
“After leaving the Senate, she went on media tours to misrepresent facts and later took her claims to the UN event. This is an attempt to embarrass Nigeria,” Akpabio said.
He appreciated Rt. Hon. Kafilat Okpara for countering Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims and urged the global community to verify facts before making judgments.
Senate Defends Suspension, Says It’s Constitutional
Senate Leader Bamidele emphasized that the Senate followed due process in suspending Akpoti-Uduaghan, stating:
“Some claim we lack the right to suspend a senator, but our rules clearly allow disciplinary action.”
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin (APC, Kano North) urged lawmakers to shift focus to governance, particularly implementing the 2025 budget.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension: Key Resolutions
The Senate suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months, citing misconduct and disruption of proceedings. Key resolutions include:
- Ban from all Senate activities for six months.
- Sealing her office during the suspension.
- Suspension of salaries and allowances (except for her legislative aides).
- Removal of security details.
Despite the suspension, Akpoti-Uduaghan has taken her case to the UN’s Inter-Parliamentary Union, arguing that her punishment was politically motivated.
What do you think about this development? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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