Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Wednesday refuted the sexual harassment allegations made against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Speaking during plenary, Akpabio stated that he has never sexually harassed Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan or any other woman at any time.
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 the year 2000 through very difficult times, and I, therefore, have the highest regard 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 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.”
Also on Wednesday, the Senate rejected a petition on alleged sexual harassment by Akpabio laid before it by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Even though Akpabio had moved to refer the petition to the relevant committee for consideration, senators kicked against it saying it was not only sub-judice but a direct breach of the Standing Rules of the Senate.
According to Monguno, the petition was against the standing rules of the Senate which provides that the chamber cannot consider a matter that is already before the court of competent jurisdiction.
He also said that it was against the rules of the Senate to receive a petition signed by a Senator.
He said the petition laid by Natasha was signed by her against the provisions of Order 40(4) of the Senate rules.
Speaking similarly, Bamidele said that there was no need to accept the petition on emotional grounds on the part of the Senate President.
