Senate Addresses Claims of Akpabio’s Intimidation of Natasha in Sexual Harassment Case

Suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has made serious allegations against the Nigerian Senate, particularly Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She accused the Senate of fostering a “secret society” atmosphere where senators are too intimidated to voice dissenting opinions, especially those directed at Akpabio………..READ MORE

Akpoti-Uduaghan explained during an interview with BBC Hausa that the Senate has created a toxic culture of fear. She claimed that senators who challenge the Senate President’s decisions are retaliated against, often sidelined from future legislative matters.

Additionally, Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio and other senators of inappropriate behaviour. She recounted an incident where senators made sexual innuendos after she forgot to wear her wedding ring. Akpoti-Uduaghan further claimed that Akpabio made a suggestive comment, saying, “Natasha, your husband seems to be enjoying you, and you might be able to twist that beautiful waist of yours,” which led to laughter from other senators.

In response, Senate Deputy Majority Leader, Senator Onyekachi Nwokedi, dismissed the allegations, stating that there was no instance of harassment by Akpabio, and that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s portrayal of the Senate did not reflect the reality of the institution. He rejected the claim that the Senate had become a “cult” where members are silenced and stated that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s behaviour did not align with the situation she described.