Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has filed a petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, alleging sexual harassment.
The petition was presented on the floor of the Senate as plenary resumed.
Citing Order 40 of the Senate rules, Akpoti-Uduaghan referenced comments she had previously made on Arise TV regarding the alleged harassment. She stated that she was now formally submitting the matter as a petition before the legislative body.
In response, Akpabio allowed her to proceed with the submission.
“Distinguished colleagues, this petition is hereby referred to the Committee on Code of Conduct, Ethics, and Public Petitions, which should report back to the Senate as soon as practicable,” Akpabio announced.
Objections Raised Over Petition
Shortly after the petition was submitted, Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Tahir Monguno raised an objection, arguing that the Senate could not deliberate on the matter because it was already in court. Citing Order 40, Rule 7, Monguno insisted that the Senate must refrain from discussing cases under judicial consideration.
Akpoti-Uduaghan, however, disputed his claim. This matter is not in court,” she asserted.
“The court case in question is a defamation suit against the Senate President’s special assistant on social media, Patrick Mfon, who falsely accused me of dressing indecently in the Senate.”
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele also opposed the petition, maintaining that it was inadmissible.
“We cannot relax our rules,” Bamidele argued. “This petition cannot stand. It is in court. It is defective, there is no way we can accept it.”
A brief commotion followed, prompting the Senate to move into a closed session.
Akpoti-Uduaghan Walks Out
Following the tense exchange, the Senate resumed its scheduled business. However, Akpoti-Uduaghan staged a walkout in protest.
This latest development follows a series of clashes between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio. On February 20, they had a dispute over seating arrangements, leading to her referral to the Senate’s disciplinary panel. Days later, on February 25, she filed a ₦100 billion defamation lawsuit against Akpabio.