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Sexual Harassment Saga: Senate Affirms Confidence In Akpabio
By Benjamin Abioye
The Senate passed a vote of confidence in Akpabio, dismissing Natasha’s harassment claims and citing legal constraints on the matter.
The Nigerian Senate has reaffirmed its support for Senate President Godswill Akpabio by passing a vote of confidence in his leadership. This decision came amid ongoing controversies within the Senate, particularly following the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The motion for the vote of confidence was moved by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who cited legislative orders to clarify concerns surrounding the upper chamber.
Senator Natasha, representing Kogi Central, was suspended after she accused Senate President Akpabio of sexual harassment. In response, she described her suspension as unfair and took the matter to the United Nations’ Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). However, the Senate countered her claims, stating that her suspension was due to gross misconduct and violation of Senate rules rather than the allegations she raised.
During the Senate session, Bamidele acknowledged the public’s interest in the matter but maintained that the Senate never received any formal complaints regarding sexual harassment. He said, “I want to make it clear that the matter referred to the Committee on Ethics and Privileges had nothing to do with sexual harassment. The Senate President did not preside over any case related to such allegations. What was addressed was a flagrant disregard for Senate rules, and we followed due process as guided by the Constitution.”
He further defended the Senate’s authority to maintain order, emphasizing that suspensions are necessary to prevent disruptions. He dismissed claims that the Senate exceeded its powers, stating that disciplinary actions are crucial to legislative integrity. He added, “It was never an issue before us that any member of us was sexually harassed, and we hold on to that point. We need to put the events of the last two weeks behind us and concentrate. There is work before us, and we have done everything possible, ensuring that the electoral reforms and others have legislative expressions.”
Regarding the international response, Bamidele clarified that the IPU was acting within its framework and that Senator Natasha’s statements were her personal views, not an official position from Nigeria’s delegation. He stated, “It was never an issue before us that any senator was sexually harassed. We need to move past the events of the last two weeks and focus on our legislative responsibilities. There is critical work before us, including electoral reforms, economic recovery, and tax reform bills. The 7th schedule of the 1999 Constitution is clear, and we all swore by oath that we will make laws for the good of this country. We swore to that oath and ensured everyone abides by that oath.”
He also addressed Civil Society Organizations, urging them to be objective in their analysis and focus on genuine cases of sexual harassment. He said, “We have heard you, but we need to concentrate on our work. So if we choose to be silent on this matter going forward, know that it is intentional on our part. Please be objective in your analysis and save energy for those genuine victims of sexual harassment.”
At the end of the session, the Senate reaffirmed its confidence in Akpabio’s leadership, commending the handling of the situation. Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, who presided over the session, emphasized the need for the legislature to focus on its primary responsibilities, including oversight functions following the passage of the budget. He reminded the Senate that the matter was now in court and should be left for the judicial system to address.
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