The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has raised alarm over the serious allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation levelled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the Senator representing the Kogi Central District.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the ACF’s spokesperson, Muhammad-Baba, called for “an independent, open, transparent and thorough investigation” to probe the claims thoroughly.
Allegations Against Senate President Akpabio
In an interview with Arise Television on Friday, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Akpabio of making inappropriate advances towards her during a visit to his residence in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on December 8, 2023.
Mrs. Akpoti-Uduaghan recounted that during the visit, the Senate President allegedly took her by the hand, led her around his house, and made sexual advances in front of her husband. She also claimed that on a separate occasion, Akpabio suggested that she should “take care of him” if she wanted her motions to receive favorable consideration on the Senate floor.
In their statement, the ACF expressed concern over the public nature of the allegations, emphasizing that Mrs. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s husband was forced to intervene and publicly comment on the matter.
The Forum warned that such public interventions have the potential to tarnish the reputation of the Senate and the National Assembly as a whole, further jeopardizing the integrity of the institution.
The ACF also noted that the ongoing controversy has led to the Kogi Central Senatorial District being inadequately represented in the 10th Senate. The statement indicated that while the situation may seem far-fetched, there is growing concern that it could be part of a broader, anti-Arewa agenda currently affecting Nigerian politics.
The Forum highlighted that, to date, only Senators from the North have faced significant sanctions, such as suspensions, within the 10th Senate.
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“It does seem that to date, only Senators from the North have been subjected to heavy sanctions, such as suspensions, in the 10th Senate. In the event, ACF wonders if the unfolding events constitute a pattern or are cruel coincidences at work! the statement added.
The ACF also criticized the public image of the 10th Senate leadership, describing it as less than inspiring.
In light of the serious nature of the allegations and the public concern surrounding the matter, the ACF made several calls:
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Independent and Transparent Investigation: The Forum urged that the allegations be subjected to an “independent, open, transparent and thorough investigation,” free from any external influence or interference.
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This, they argued, is essential to restore the Senate’s focus on its legislative duties during a time when Nigerians are grappling with difficult living conditions due to the impact of public policies.
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Fair Treatment for Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan: The ACF called on the Northern Caucus in the Senate to rally behind Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, ensuring she receives a fair hearing and is treated with the due respect she deserves in the Senate.
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Exemplary Leadership from the National Assembly: The Forum called for the leadership and members of the National Assembly to exhibit exemplary behavior, demonstrating discipline, moral integrity, and a commitment to ethical conduct.
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The ACF lamented that such qualities appeared to be lacking in the current running of the 10th Senate.
