… As Akpabio denies allegations
The senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Wednesday formally submitted a petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of sexual harassment.
Speaking under Order 40 of the Senate Rules, Akpoti-Uduaghan stated that she had previously made the allegations against Akpabio during an interview on Arise TV and had now decided to present them officially before the Senate.
Following her remarks, Akpabio directed her to proceed with the submission, which she did.
With her action, the senate is now bound to take a look at the petition.
Some of her supporters also stormed the National Assembly Complex with placards to protest the alleged sexual harassment.
Meanwhile, the senate president has denied the sexual harassment allegations against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Akpabio who made the comments during plenary, said he has never at any point sexually harassed the Kogi West senator or any other woman whatsoever.
He said: “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 year 2000 through very difficult times and I therefore have the highest regards 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.
“In conclusion, I urge all Nigerians, particularly the media and then of course the members of the social media to await the court’s decision and please do not jump to conclusions on matters of mere allegations.
“I want to thank you for listening to me. I thank my colleagues because some of your phone calls were calls of support, solidarity and prayer that the Almighty God will step in to vindicate the just.”
