ABUJA, Nigeria – The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions (SCEPPP) is set to hear testimonies from Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Kogi Central lawmaker Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over allegations of sexual harassment.
The development was confirmed by Senate Deputy Chief Whip Onyekachi Nwebonyi during an appearance on Channels Television on Friday, March 14, 2025.
Nwebonyi stated that other senators present at the time of the alleged incident would also testify before the committee.
“All the parties involved would appear before the Committee, including the Senate President. He would come and testify, and his testimony would be recorded, likewise other senators,” Nwebonyi said.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), had accused Akpabio of sexually harassing her during a visit to his residence in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, in December 2023.
She claimed that Akpabio held her hand, led her around his house, and made inappropriate advances towards her, even in the presence of her husband.
The allegations have sparked widespread controversy within the Senate and beyond.
However, Nwebonyi, who represents Ebonyi North, dismissed the claims, suggesting they were an attempt to divert attention.
“In criminal prosecution, there is what we call prima facie evidence, that is, evidence on the surface. If there is no prima facie evidence, then there is no case,” Nwebonyi argued.
He added, “She knows quite well that what she is saying is to divert attention, but we are not disturbed because we know the truth. On the alleged date of the incident, so many senators were there. I am one of the star witnesses, and I will come and tell the world what I saw.”
