The sexual harassment petition filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio has sparked division among senators, with many questioning its validity based on Senate rules.
Akpoti-Uduaghan officially submitted the petition on Wednesday, challenging previous claims by Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu that no such complaint had been filed. However, despite public support for her cause, several senators argue that the petition violates parliamentary procedure and legal jurisdiction.
Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Monguno (APC, Borno) cited Order 40, Rule 7, stating that the matter is already before a court, making Senate deliberation improper. Senator Yahaya Abdullahi (APC, Kebbi North) suggested referring the issue to the Ethics and Privileges Committee for clarity, while Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) noted that Senate rules prohibit a senator from being the direct author of a petition.
In response, Akpoti-Uduaghan insisted her petition is unrelated to any court case, stating that the only legal matter currently in court concerns cyberbullying allegations against Akpabio’s aide. She urged Akpabio to forward her petition to the Ethics Committee for review.
Akpabio has denied the harassment allegations, emphasizing his longstanding respect for women. He urged the public to refrain from drawing conclusions, stating that the matter should be left for legal authorities to determine.
