Atiku demands Senate probe into Natasha’s harassment claims against Akpabio

• Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan had earlier alleged that she faced harassment and intimidation in the Senate after rejecting Senate President Akpabio’s advances
  

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Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has called on President Bola Tinubu and the Senate to take seriously the allegations of sexual harassment, intimidation, and mistreatment leveled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central).

In a statement on Friday, Atiku expressed deep concern, stating that such allegations are grave and should not be dismissed without a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation.

“The Nigerian Senate represents the voice of the people. Those who serve in it—especially its leadership—must uphold the highest standards of integrity, dignity, and respect for the offices they hold and for the citizens they serve,” he said.

He emphasized that as the third most powerful figure in the country, the Senate President should embody unimpeachable character, adding that sexual harassment in the workplace is a major barrier to women’s advancement and, by extension, national progress.

“At a time when only four women serve in the Senate, it is imperative to foster an environment where female legislators can work without fear of harassment or intimidation,” Atiku stated.

He urged President Tinubu and the Senate leadership to ensure a credible and independent investigation, stressing that the outcome of this matter will send a strong message about Nigeria’s commitment to justice, accountability, and gender inclusion in governance.

“This moment demands careful and principled action to uphold the integrity of our institutions and ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of gender, is treated with dignity and respect,” he added.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan had earlier alleged that she faced harassment and intimidation in the Senate after rejecting Senate President Akpabio’s advances. The allegations have since sparked widespread reactions, with calls for a formal investigation.