By Parrot Newspaper 
Sexual Harassment: Why We Are Yet to Probe Akpabio – Senate
The Nigerian Senate has stated that it cannot investigate Senate President Godswill Akpabio over allegations of sexual harassment made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) due to the absence of a formal petition.
Speaking on Arise TV on Monday, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, Senator Yemi Adaramodu (APC, Ekiti South), explained that no official complaint had been submitted to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions.
Natasha’s Allegations
Senator Natasha alleged that Akpabio made inappropriate advances toward her during a visit to his residence in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on December 8, 2023. She claimed that the Senate President held her hand, led her around his house, and made suggestive remarks while her husband followed behind them.
She further alleged that Akpabio had, on another occasion, suggested that she “make him happy” if she wanted her motions to receive favorable consideration on the Senate floor.
These allegations surfaced amid an ongoing standoff between both lawmakers after the Senate referred Natasha to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions over a dispute regarding sitting arrangements in the chamber.
Akpabio’s Defense
Akpabio has denied the allegations through his media consultant, Kenny Okulogbo, while his wife, Ekaette Akpabio, also dismissed the claims as baseless.
Senate’s Position
Senator Adaramodu insisted that the Senate does not act based on social media trends but only through formal processes.
“The Senate does not conduct its affairs based on what is trending on social media. There must be a formal petition or a matter raised before the Senate before any investigation can take place,” he stated.
He also emphasized that Senator Natasha must comply with Senate rules, particularly Order 6, which gives the Senate President the authority to assign seats to lawmakers.
The controversy continues to spark reactions, with some demanding an independent probe into Natasha’s allegations, while others view the situation as a political showdown between the two senators.