The Nigerian Senate has been thrown into controversy following a petition of sexual harassment filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The development has drawn sharp reactions, including a strong condemnation from former Minister of Education and co-convener of the Bring Back Our Girls Movement, Obiageli Ezekwesili.
Ezekwesili, in an open letter to the Senate, described the unfolding events as a "farcical blot on democracy," criticizing the decision to allow Akpabio to preside over a matter in which he is the accused. She called for immediate action, demanding the appointment of an independent investigator to handle the petition and the elevation of the Ethics and Privileges Committee proceedings into a full public hearing.
According to her, “Our National Assembly belongs to the Nigerian people and not to politicians of any stripe and status. Dismissing a serious accusation against the Senate President just like the Senators irresponsibly did yesterday is a Democratic Aberration. It cannot stand. Never.”
The crisis erupted when Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, submitted a petition accusing Akpabio of sexual harassment. However, rather than allowing an impartial review of the matter, Akpabio reportedly dismissed the allegations while presiding over the Senate chamber, a move Ezekwesili described as an abuse of due process.
“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. It is in our public interest that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition be urgently given the seriousness it deserves to defend the institutional integrity of our Senate,” Ezekwesili stated.
Her letter, widely shared on social media platform X, also tagged the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), urging their involvement in ensuring an impartial investigation.
The allegations and the Senate’s handling of the situation have sparked public outrage, with many Nigerians questioning whether justice can be served when the accused remains in control of the proceedings. Observers believe this case will test the credibility of the Senate and the country’s commitment to transparency and the rule of law.
As calls for accountability grow louder, all eyes are now on the Senate leadership to see whether they will heed Ezekwesili’s demands or allow the matter to be swept under the rug.
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