The feud between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Kogi Central senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over sexual harassment allegations leveled by the latter against the former took another twist on Tuesday as some women’s groups tendered an apology to the Senate.
The women’s groups, under the aegis of the Nigerian Women Crusade for Good Governance, NWCGG, tendered an apology to Akpabio and the Senate at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
Speaking through their leader, Cecilia Ikechukwu, the women’s groups described the saga as an embarrassment to Nigerian women, noting that it had undermined the efforts of female politicians who have worked hard to gain the trust and respect of Nigerians.
Noting that Akpoti-Uduaghan has a history of accusing men in positions of authority of sexual harassment, the women’s groups said Senate President Akpabio has demonstrated a commitment to women’s inclusion in politics.
Apologizing to Nigerians for Akpoti-Uduaghan’s conduct, the groups pledged to continue advocating for leadership opportunities for women and good governance.
They advised Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to study the Senate Rules during her suspension in order to gain a better understanding of the legislative process.
“She (Akpoti-Uduaghan) must take this opportunity to read and understand the Senate rules so that upon her return, she can comport herself with the dignity and respect befitting of her office.
“Evidently, Natasha Akpoti has set back the cause of women in politics by reinforcing negative stereotypes about female leaders. However, her actions must not define us. We must continue to prove that women in governance are capable, respectable, and deserving of leadership positions. It is our hope that she will use this period of suspension to emerge as a more responsible and respectful leader,” the women’s groups said.
Continuing, they admonished women in public office to understand that their positions come with a duty to inspire others.
“We also emphasize that this incident must not be allowed to overshadow the progress that many great women have made in Nigerian politics. There are countless women who have served with distinction and have never stopped inspiring future generations.
“Women in public office must understand that the position comes with a duty to inspire and not to embarrass. Finally, we call on all Nigerians to remain steadfast in their support for good governance and to hold their leaders accountable for their actions.
“May this unfortunate episode serve as a lesson on the importance of character, maturity, and responsible leadership. Together, we can build a nation that values integrity, respect, and equality for all,” they added.
DAILY POST reported that the Senate, on March 6, 2025, suspended Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months. Although it was widely reported that the suspension was due to the sexual harassment allegations she leveled against Akpabio, the Senate later clarified that she was suspended for flouting the institution’s rules.
However, Akpoti-Uduaghan rejected her six-month suspension from the Senate, describing it as an injustice that must not stand.
A lawsuit she filed asking a court to restrain the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges from investigating her has been adjourned to March 25.
Women groups beg Nigerian Senate over Natasha-Akpabio saga, call for unity
