Senate President Godswill Akpabio has firmly rejected growing calls for his resignation, vowing to remain in office despite mounting pressure over allegations of sexual harassment and electoral misconduct.

Akpabio, who has faced intense public scrutiny in recent weeks, stands accused by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of sexual harassment.
He is also linked to allegations of electoral fraud during the 2019 general elections. Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and opposition figures have urged him to step aside to allow for an independent investigation and to uphold the integrity of the Senate.

Speaking on the Senate floor on Thursday, Akpabio dismissed the allegations as “frivolous” and politically motivated, maintaining that he would not be forced out of office without due process or credible evidence.

“I will not allow myself to be a victim of a miscarriage of justice,” Akpabio declared, responding to remarks by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who had earlier called on lawmakers to remain focused on their legislative duties amid the ongoing controversies.

While acknowledging the public’s right to scrutiny, Akpabio insisted that criticism must be grounded in truth. “I will not step down for false allegations,” he said, citing the dangers of mob justice and pointing to historical cases of false accusations derailing public careers.
Defending the Senate’s legislative agenda, Akpabio highlighted the passage of key tax reforms and upcoming efforts to address electoral and constitutional reforms.

“In the last six months, we have worked tirelessly to ensure that the laws we pass serve the best interests of our country,” he said, referring to bills introduced in November 2024 and the Senate’s engagement with stakeholders from across the executive, civil society, and professional groups.

Akpabio also took issue with recent comments by the Minister of Defense, who reportedly downplayed the need for a proposed national security summit.
Describing the remarks as “concerning,” the Senate President stressed the importance of inter-governmental cooperation and warned against public disputes between branches of government.

“If the Honorable Minister thinks a national security summit is unnecessary, then I am concerned,” he said. “Any issues with Senate resolutions should be communicated through the proper channels, not aired publicly.”

He cautioned against executive-legislative tensions, urging ministers to show respect for institutional processes. “Executive-legislative bickering in the market is unacceptable,” Akpabio said.

Concluding his address, Akpabio reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to its constitutional responsibilities. “This Senate will not allow any shenanigans to derail our mandate. We are here to work in the public interest.”

His remarks come at a critical juncture as the 10th Senate seeks to establish itself as a stabilizing force in Nigerian governance. Akpabio’s defiant posture underscores his determination to stay the course, despite mounting external pressure.

The backlash, however, remains divided. Supporters within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) argue that Akpabio is the target of a coordinated political campaign, while critics insist the allegations are serious enough to warrant a temporary withdrawal pending a transparent investigation.

Although no formal charges have been filed against him, civil society actors continue to demand accountability and transparency, warning that failure to act could erode public confidence in the National Assembly.

As the controversy deepens, the spotlight now turns to the Senate and the APC to either rally behind Akpabio or initiate internal disciplinary measures.