ABUJA, Nigeria — The Senate has dismissed a petition filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in which she accused him of sexual harassment.
At a probe session on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, Senator Neda Imasuen (LP, Edo South), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions, ruled that the petition was “dead on arrival,” citing procedural irregularities and sub judice concerns.
According to Imasuen, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition was invalid because she signed it herself, rather than having it endorsed by another individual, as required under Order 40 of the Senate Standing Orders.
Additionally, he stated that the issues raised in the petition were already before a court, rendering them sub judice and beyond the Senate’s jurisdiction.
The matter had been referred to the Ethics Committee two weeks ago following Akpoti-Uduaghan’s decision to present her allegations on the Senate floor.
Akpabio had subsequently directed the committee to conduct a thorough investigation and report back within two weeks.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Absence at Probe Panel
Despite the scheduled sitting, Akpoti-Uduaghan failed to appear before the probe panel.
The session, originally set for 2:00 PM, was delayed and did not commence until 2:58 PM, following the arrival of Senator Imasuen and Senator Yemi Adaramodu (APC, Ekiti South).
Adaramodu, who arrived at 2:50 PM, criticized Akpoti-Uduaghan’s public challenge of the Senate President over her seat allocation, arguing that it had damaged the Senate’s image.
He also referenced an interview she granted to Brekete Family on Human Rights Radio and TV, where she reiterated her allegations against Akpabio.
Senate Closes Case
Following deliberations, the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions formally dismissed the petition, effectively ending the matter within the legislative body.
With the case now closed in the Senate, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal options may be limited to pursuing her claims through the courts.
However, the dismissal is likely to further intensify political tensions within the upper chamber.
