Nigeria’s Senate President Godswill Akpabio denied allegations of sexual harassment made against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan during a plenary session on Wednesday.
Akpabio said that he has never engaged in sexual harassment towards the Kogi West senator or any other woman at any time.
“I did not harass Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan sexually, and I have never harassed any woman sexually.
“I and my siblings were raised very well by my late single mother, who died in the year 2000 through difficult times, and I, therefore, have the highest regard for women. Even after her demise, I still cry when I remember her.
“I also wish to state that I also have four beautiful daughters. So, at no time will I ever harass any woman, and I have never done so.
“In addition, even as a state governor, I was awarded various awards. One of them was the most gender-friendly governor in Nigeria. I served between 2007 and 2015, to God be the glory. He said.
On the same day, the Senate dismissed a petition concerning alleged sexual harassment by Akpabio that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan submitted.
Although Akpabio proposed referring the petition to the relevant committee for review, senators opposed this move, arguing that it was not only under judicial consideration but also violated the Standing Rules of the Senate.
Senate Chief Whip Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno and Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele opposed accepting the petition and advocated for its dismissal. Monguno explained that the petition contravened Senate rules, which state that the chamber cannot address a matter currently before a competent court.
