On Friday, March 7, Senate President Godswill Akpabio responded to the recent sexual harassment allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against him. Speaking at an event marking the 2025 International Women’s Day in Abuja, Akpabio stated:
“Just yesterday, I realized that these allegations emerged only after a change of seats. That’s when all kinds of accusations began. It all came up after a change in committee assignments, which is a regular occurrence in the Senate. The allegations date back to December 8, 2023, the day before my birthday, which was celebrated in a stadium. Since that time, neither I nor my wife nor any Nigerian had heard of any sexual harassment claims until after the change in committee and seat assignments.
Have you ever considered the impact of these accusations on the individuals involved? Not one of these claims has been proven, yet they continue to harm the reputation of the 10th Senate and its image. I have chosen to remain silent about it for now.
Look at these wonderful women here today. They’ve crossed paths with me countless times. Have I ever harassed any of you? Or do they think you’re not beautiful?”
The remarks follow a series of counter-allegations between the Senate President and Senator Natasha, which led to the Kogi Senator being suspended for six months by the Senate on Thursday for breaching its rules.