The former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has called for a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation over allegations of sexual harassment, and mistreatment against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan accused the Senate President of making inappropriate advances towards her during a visit to his country home in Akwa Ibom.
Speaking in an interview with ARISE NEWS on Friday, the Kogi Central senator recounted the alleged incident, which she said took place in December, a day before both their birthdays.
Natasha narrated, “It all started the day before his birthday and my birthday because we are birthday mates. We were all in Akwa Ibom. At first, we were in his house at Ikot Ekpene.
“Then we all went to his house in Uyo, then he held my hands, walking around from room to room, he showed me the beautiful interiors.
“He got to particular sitting room and asked me if I liked his house. I said of course, Sir, every room is beautiful, beautiful taste.
“And he said, Now you are a senator, I am going to create time for us to come create quality moments here. You will enjoy it.’ At that point, I just pulled away because I didn’t understand what he meant,” she said.Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegation comes in the wake of a heated session in the Senate last Thursday, when Akpabio ordered sergeants-at- arms to remove her from the chamber.
Atiku, while reacting to this development on X said, “These allegations are grave and deserve a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation. The Nigerian Senate represents the voice of the people.
“Those who serve in it — especially its leadership — must uphold the highest standards of integrity, dignity, and respect, both for their office and for the Nigerian citizens they serve.
“As the third most powerful figure in the country, the Senate President should embody unimpeachable character. Sexual harassment in the workplace is a significant barrier to women’s advancement and, by extension, the nation’s progress.
“Allegations of such misconduct should never be simply dismissed, particularly when they involve a public officer with immense power, influence, and responsibility.“As the chief presiding officer of the Upper Chamber, the Senate President has a duty to champion the protection and empowerment of Nigerian women through legislation, not to be the subject of allegations that undermine those very principles.
“The handling of this matter will send a strong message about Nigeria’s commitment to justice, accountability, and the inclusion of women in governance”, he stated.
Atiku urged the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu and the Senate itself to take these allegations seriously by ensuring a credible, transparent, and independent investigation.
He said, “With only four women currently serving in the Senate, it is imperative that we foster an environment where female legislators can serve without fear of harassment or intimidation.
“This moment demands careful and principled action to uphold the integrity of our institutions and ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of gender, is treated with dignity and respect”, Atiku concluded.
