ABUJA, Nigeria – The Senate on Thursday, March 13, 2025, passed a unanimous vote of confidence in its President, Senator Godswill Akpabio.
This follows a motion moved by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central) and seconded by Deputy Minority Leader Olalere Oyewumi (Osun West).
The decision comes amid controversy surrounding allegations of sexual harassment raised by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central).
Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was suspended as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora and NGOs, recently addressed the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in New York, claiming her suspension was linked to her allegations against Akpabio.
Her remarks have sparked debates about accountability and transparency within the Senate.
During Thursday’s plenary, Bamidele praised Akpabio’s leadership, describing him as a unifying figure who has fostered collaboration and progress in the Senate.
“Senator Akpabio has demonstrated exemplary leadership, and we stand by him in solidarity,” Bamidele said.
The motion was supported by lawmakers across party lines, with Oyewumi emphasising the need for unity and stability in the Senate.
“This vote of confidence is a testament to our collective belief in Senator Akpabio’s leadership and his commitment to the progress of the Senate and the nation,” Oyewumi stated.
The unanimous vote of confidence comes as the Senate seeks to project an image of cohesion and resolve amid internal and external scrutiny.
However, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations have raised questions about the handling of such claims and the broader culture within the legislative body.
Akpabio, a former governor of Akwa Ibom State, has not publicly addressed the allegations.
