By Parrot Newspaper 
Natasha vs. Akpabio: Sexual Harassment Petition Sparks Senate Drama
By Ricky Awodi
The Nigerian Senate witnessed heated exchanges on Monday as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan formally submitted a petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, alleging sexual harassment.
Relying on Senate Order 40, the Kogi Central lawmaker presented the petition after previously making similar claims during an interview on Arise TV. Akpabio, who presided over the session, referred the petition to the Senate Committee on Code of Conduct, Ethics, and Public Petitions, directing them to report back as soon as possible.
However, the session quickly descended into chaos when Chief Whip Mohammed Tahir Monguno raised an objection, arguing that the matter was sub judice and could not be entertained by the Senate. He cited Order 40, Rule 7, which prevents the chamber from deliberating on issues pending in court.
Natasha, in a sharp rebuttal, countered Monguno’s claim, clarifying that the only ongoing court case was a defamation lawsuit against Akpabio’s special assistant on social media, Patrick Mfon. The defamation suit, she explained, stemmed from allegations that she dressed indecently to the Senate, which was separate from the sexual harassment claims.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele backed Monguno’s stance, insisting that the petition was defective and should not be considered. Amid the rising tension, he moved for the Senate to enter a closed session, leading to a brief rowdy exchange before calm was restored.
In protest, Akpoti-Uduaghan staged a dramatic walkout, leaving the chamber as the Senate moved on to other legislative matters.
The controversy surrounding the petition adds another layer of tension to the already strained relationship between Natasha and Akpabio, raising questions about the Senate’s stance on allegations of sexual misconduct within its ranks.