Supporters of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, alongside those of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, gathered at the National Assembly on Wednesday.
Earlier, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s backers had protested at the entrance of the parliament, demanding Akpabio’s resignation due to alleged sexual harassment against the Kogi lawmaker.
When Akpoti-Uduaghan arrived at the protest site, her supporters cheered while holding placards that read “Akpabio must go” and “We stand with Senator Natasha.”
The protesters, which included members of various civil society organisations, called for a comprehensive investigation into her claims.
In response, a rival group of supporters for Akpabio organised a counter-demonstration, carrying placards with messages such as “Apologise to the Senate President”; “We say no to Natasha’s serial blackmailing”; and “Akpabio treated Natasha as a daughter and friend.”
This group, identifying themselves as United Women for Good Governance, demanded an apology from Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan concerning her allegations of sexual harassment against the Senate President.
Earlier, law enforcement had used tear gas to disperse Akpoti-Uduaghan’s supporters at the National Assembly Arcade. The demonstrators, who began assembling around 8 a.m., were compelled to retreat but later reconvened at the Unity Fountain to continue their protest.
