Atiku Calls for Independent Investigation into Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Senate President Akpabio
Former Nigerian Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, has urged President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian Senate to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the serious allegations of sexual harassment leveled against Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
Atiku, in a statement released on Friday, expressed deep concern over the accusations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The Kogi Central lawmaker had accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, intimidation, and political retaliation after rejecting his alleged advances.
Atiku emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “Like millions of Nigerians, I watched with deep concern this morning as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan raised serious allegations of sexual harassment, intimidation, and mistreatment against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio. These allegations are grave and deserve a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation.”
He further underscored the importance of integrity in public office, highlighting that the Nigerian Senate, as a body representing the voice of the people, must uphold the highest standards of dignity and respect. “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.”
SaharaReporters had earlier reported that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) accused Senate President Akpabio of sexual harassment. She claimed that after she rejected his advances, Akpabio retaliated by blocking her motions in the Senate. She also alleged that she had substantial evidence to support her claims, including screenshots of their conversations, and challenged security agencies to investigate.
Atiku pointed out that as the third most powerful figure in Nigeria, Akpabio must set an example of unimpeachable character, emphasizing that 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,” Atiku stated.
The former vice president also reminded Akpabio of his responsibility as Senate President to protect and empower Nigerian women. “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,” he said.
Atiku further stressed that how this case is handled will send a clear message about Nigeria’s commitment to justice, accountability, and the inclusion of women in governance. “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 asserted.
The former vice president also highlighted the gender imbalance in the Senate, where only four women currently serve, emphasizing the need for a harassment-free environment in which female legislators can serve without fear of intimidation. “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,” he said.
In conclusion, Atiku called for decisive action from both the presidency and the Senate to ensure a credible, independent, and transparent investigation into the allegations. “I urge the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Senate itself to take these allegations seriously by ensuring a credible, transparent, and independent investigation,” he said.
He concluded by urging principled action to protect the dignity of all Nigerians. “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 added.
Like millions of Nigerians, I watched with deep concern this morning as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan raised serious allegations of sexual harassment, intimidation, and mistreatment against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
These allegations are grave and deserve a…
— Atiku Abubakar (@atiku) February 28, 2025
