Akpabio Responds to Sexual Harassment Allegation by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has responded to the allegation of sexual harassment by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a Lawmaker representing Kogi Central District, stating that he has never harassed any woman.

He said this on Wednesday during a plenary session shortly after Senator Natasha petitioned the Senate under order 40, accusing him of sexual harassment and abuse of office.

The former Governor of Akwa Ibom State said; “At no point have I ever attempted any sexual harassment on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan or on any woman. I and my siblings were raised very well by our single mother who died in 2000 through very difficult times, and therefore, I have the highest regard for women. I also want to say that I’ve four beautiful daughters so I will never harass any woman and have never done so. As a State Governor, I was given several awards, one of them being the ‘most gender-friendly governor.’ I served between 2007 and 2015, to God be the glory.

“In conclusion, I urge the media, especially members of social media, to await the Court’s decision and not jump to conclusions on matters of mere allegation. I want to thank you and my colleagues for your support and prayers. I pray that Almighty God will step in and vindicate the just.”

On Wednesday, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan stated that she made some statements on Arise TV and has decided to make these statements in a formal petition against the President of the Senate.

Meanwhile, civil rights groups stormed the National Assembly on Wednesday, urging the Senate President to step aside for further investigation.

Some of their banners read, “Akpabio Must Go” and “Protect Women’s Rights”.