ActionAid seeks probe into Senator Natasha’s allegations against Akpabio

ActionAid Nigeria has called for an independent and transparent investigation into recent allegations of sexual harassment within the National Assembly, stressing that such claims point to potential abuse of power and a culture of impunity.

The organisation condemned the allegations and emphasized the need for a fair and credible process that upholds human dignity and accountability.

Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, on Friday, accused the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, of sexual harassment.

Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan, a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), made the allegation during an interview with Arise Television on Friday.

The senator detailed an incident from 8 December 2023, when she and her husband visited Mr Akpabio’s residence in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State.

Speaking in Abuja, ActionAid Nigeria’s Country Director, Andrew Mamedu, urged the Code of Conduct Bureau, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), and the National Assembly’s Ethics Committee to lead the investigation.

He stressed that the inquiry must meet international human rights standards, ensuring accountability if the claims are proven true, or exposing any politically motivated falsehoods.

“The National Assembly must adopt and enforce a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and abuse of power, especially against women in leadership,” Mamedu stated.

He also called for stronger institutional safeguards, including anonymous reporting mechanisms, independent investigations, and protections for whistleblowers.

ActionAid warned that ignoring these allegations could damage public trust, discourage women’s participation in politics, and undermine the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy.

The organization insisted that the credibility of the National Assembly was on the line and urged swift action to restore confidence in governance.