The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has called for an independent investigation into the sexual harassment allegations leveled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central). The forum, in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Professor Tukur Muhammad-Baba, expressed deep concern over the controversy and urged the Senate to ensure a fair hearing while upholding ethical standards in its proceedings.
According to the ACF, the National Assembly must serve as a model of integrity and discipline, warning that the allegations, if left unaddressed, could damage the credibility of the Senate both nationally and internationally. The group noted that the issue had already sparked widespread debate, with various stakeholders, including Akpoti-Uduaghan’s husband, weighing in, a development it said risked dragging the institution into disrepute.
The ACF also suggested that the controversy might be part of a broader pattern of political victimization within the 10th Senate, observing that senators from the North had borne the brunt of disciplinary actions, including suspensions. The group questioned whether these developments were mere coincidences or part of a deliberate scheme, urging Northern senators to rally behind Akpoti-Uduaghan.
As the ACF pressed for an independent and transparent probe, reports surfaced about a purported move to impeach Akpabio over the allegations. However, the Senate quickly dismissed such speculations, with the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, Senator Yemi Adaramodu (APC, Ekiti South), categorically stating that there were no discussions or plans to remove the Senate leadership. He clarified that the recent breach of Senate rules had been referred to the appropriate committee and that no other matter was under review. Adaramodu insisted that the Senate remains an independent institution and will not be swayed by external pressures in addressing its internal affairs.
The controversy began when Akpoti-Uduaghan, in an interview with Arise Television, accused Akpabio of making inappropriate advances toward her during a visit to his residence in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on December 8, 2023. She alleged that the Senate President held her hand, led her around his house, and made suggestive remarks while her husband was present. Additionally, she claimed that Akpabio had, on a separate occasion, told her to “make him happy” if she wanted her motions to receive favorable consideration on the Senate floor.
The allegations emerged just days after the Senate unanimously voted to refer Akpoti-Uduaghan to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions for disciplinary review following her disagreement with Akpabio over seating arrangements during plenary. While the accusations have fueled calls for accountability, Akpabio has strongly denied them, with his media consultant, Kenny Okulogbo, dismissing them as baseless. His wife, Ekaette Akpabio, also defended him, rejecting the claims as unfounded.
Meanwhile, civil society organizations (CSOs) and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have joined the ACF in demanding a thorough investigation into the matter. Some advocacy groups have gone a step further, calling on Akpabio to step aside to allow for an impartial probe. As public scrutiny intensifies, the Senate faces mounting pressure to handle the issue transparently while ensuring that due process is followed.
