•Natasha and Akpabio
The Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions has dismissed Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s sexual harassment and abuse of office petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, declaring it “dead on arrival”.
The committee today cited procedural violations and legal constraints, reports Channels TV.
During the probe session, the Chairman of the Committee, Senator Neda Imasuen, cited Order 40 of the Senate Standing Orders, explaining that Akpoti-Uduaghan signed the petition herself rather than having it endorsed by another individual, thereby rendering it procedurally invalid.
Additionally, he noted that the matters raised in the petition were already before the court, making them sub judice and beyond the Senate’s jurisdiction.
Meanwhile, Akpabio has denied the sexual harassment allegations against him by the Kogi lawmaker.
On February 20, 2025, Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, rejected her assigned seat in the red chamber and challenged the Senate President’s order.
The female senator accused the senate president of harassment and slammed a N100bn alleged defamation suit against him while the Akpabio-led upper legislative chamber has referred her to the senate disciplinary committee.
In July 2024, Akpabio apologised to Akpoti-Uduaghan over his nightclub comment against the female lawmaker.
Natasha Shuns Senate Committee
Today, Wednesday, March 5, 2025, Akpoti-Uduaghan was absent when the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct commenced its probe into her alleged refusal to comply with Senate rules.
After waiting for an hour, Committee Chairman, Senator Neda Imaseun, expressed disappointment over her absence.
“We waited, and unfortunately, she is not here. I hope that before we conclude this procedure, she will join us,” the lawmaker said.
He asserted that the committee was acting within its mandate, explaining that “every petition is referred to us by the entire Senate, and the committee has the authority to deliberate on such matters. In this case, the issue was brought before us on February 25 by Senate Spokesperson, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, nothing more, nothing less.”
Despite her absence, Senator Imaseun reiterated his hope that the Kogi senator would present herself before the committee before the conclusion of proceedings. The chairman said his colleague was properly notified of the meeting.
