
Addressing Sexual Harassment: Natasha’s Bold Move
On March 5, 2025, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan formally submitted a petition during a Senate plenary session, accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment, abuse of office, and obstruction of legislative duties.
The petition was referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions for review. However, the committee dismissed the petition on procedural grounds, citing Order 40(4) of the Senate Standing Orders, which prohibits senators from submitting petitions personally signed by themselves. Committee Chairman Senator Neda Imasuen stated that this violation rendered the petition “dead on arrival.”
Additionally, some senators contended that the issues raised in the petition were sub judice, as they were already before a court of law, further limiting the Senate’s jurisdiction over the matter.
In response to the allegations, Senate President Akpabio has denied any wrongdoing, refuting the claims made by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.
This development has sparked discussions about procedural adherence within the Senate and the appropriate channels for addressing such allegations.
For more details, you can watch the following video: