A women’s advocacy group, Voices for Inclusion and Equity for Women (VIEW), has called for Senate President Godswill Akpabio to step aside while an independent investigation is conducted into sexual harassment allegations made against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The group emphasized the importance of upholding justice and fairness in the Senate, arguing that no individual, regardless of their political status, should have the power to intimidate or suppress female senators. They stated that addressing the issue transparently is essential to maintaining public trust in legislative institutions.
The controversy began on February 28 when Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan publicly accused Akpabio of making unwanted sexual advances toward her, both in his office and at his residence in Akwa Ibom. The allegations have sparked intense debate, leading to reactions from various political figures, advocacy groups, and legal parties.
In response to the allegations, Akpabio’s wife, Ekaette, filed a lawsuit against Akpoti-Uduaghan. The legal action has further fueled tensions surrounding the case, with many calling for an independent and thorough investigation to determine the truth.
The dispute between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan traces back to an incident on February 20, when the two senators clashed over seating arrangements during a Senate session. Akpoti-Uduaghan refused to accept her assigned seat and openly defied Akpabio’s orders, disrupting the plenary session. As a result, she was referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions for disciplinary review.
In its official statement, VIEW, represented by prominent women leaders, insisted that the Senate must take a firm stance on the matter. The group warned that a failure to act decisively could further undermine public confidence in legislative institutions and contribute to a culture of impunity within the government.
“Given the gravity of these allegations, it is both ethical and necessary for the Senate President to step aside, to allow for a truly independent and transparent investigation,” the statement read.
VIEW also pointed out that this is not the first time Akpabio has faced such accusations, suggesting a troubling pattern that requires urgent scrutiny. The group stressed that female senators remain underrepresented and vulnerable to systemic bias, making it essential for the Senate to ensure a safe and fair working environment for all members.
The organization urged the Senate to reaffirm its commitment to justice and fairness, stating that leadership should not be used as a shield against accountability. They called for a full and transparent investigation into the matter to uphold the integrity of the institution.
The allegations against Akpabio have added to the growing concerns over gender equality and power dynamics within Nigeria’s political landscape. Many observers believe that the case could set a precedent for how similar allegations are handled in the future. While Akpabio has not publicly responded to VIEW’s demands, pressure continues to mount for a formal inquiry into the claims.
The Senate has yet to announce any official steps regarding the investigation, but the case remains a focal point in national discussions on political accountability and gender equity.
