Former Nigerian minister Oby Ezekwesili has called on the Nigerian Senate to independently investigate the petition filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and ensure that it is openly discussed in a public hearing without the accused presiding.
Akpoti-Uduaghan had submitted a petition accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment and abuse of office. However, the Senate Ethics Committee dismissed the petition, citing procedural violations and legal constraints.
Some senators argued that Senate rules do not allow a petition to be submitted by the person who signed it, while others claimed that the matter was already before the court and therefore could not be addressed in the Senate.
Ezekwesili has criticised the Senate’s handling of the matter, describing it as a violation of democratic principles and a stain on Nigeria’s legislative system.
“Dismissing a serious accusation against the Senate President just like the Senators irresponsibly did yesterday is a Democratic Aberration.
“It cannot stand. Never.
“What happened yesterday in the Senate Chamber where a Senate President presided over a grave matter involving him, was farcical and a blot on our Democracy,” she stated.
She condemned Akpabio for presiding over the session despite being the subject of the petition and insisted that such a serious allegation should not be dismissed without a fair and transparent process.
She urged the Senate to appoint an independent investigator and upgrade the Ethics Committee’s proceedings to a public hearing. She emphasised that the National Assembly belongs to the Nigerian people, not politicians, and should not be used for personal interests.
Ezekwesili also expressed concern over reports that the Senate might suspend Akpoti-Uduaghan, warning that no institution can suppress public accountability indefinitely. She called on the Senate to act with integrity and ensure that justice is served.
“No matter how much delegated power you arrogantly abuse…. A Day Comes.
“Get wisdom…. Get understanding,” she said.
