Atiku wants Natasha’s sexual harassment claim against Akpabio probed

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has called for investigation into allegations of sexual harassment, intimidation and mistreatment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP-Kogi).

In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, Abubakar described the allegations as “grave” and deserved thorough, impartial and transparent investigation.

Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the PDP in 2023 general election, urged President Bola Tinubu and the Senate to ensure a credible, transparent, and independent 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, both for their office and for the Nigerian citizens they serve.

“As the third most powerful figure in the country, the Senate President should embody unimpeachable character.

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“Sexual harassment in the workplace is a significant barrier to women’s advancement and, by extension, the nation’s progress.

“Allegations of such misconduct should never be simply dismissed, particularly when they involve a public officer with immense power, influence, and responsibility,’’ Abubakar said.

He said that as the chief presiding officer of the upper chamber, the senate president had a duty to champion the protection and empowerment of Nigerian women through legislation.

He added that the senate president should, therefore, not to be the subject of allegations that undermine those very principles.

Abubakar said that the handling of the matter would send a strong message about Nigeria’s commitment to justice, accountability, and the inclusion of women in governance.

“With only four women currently serving in the Senate, it is imperative that we foster an environment where female legislators can serve without fear of harassment or intimidation.

“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 said.

Meanwhile, the media consultant to the Senate President, Kenny Okulogbo, on Friday, described the allegations as “tissues of lies”.

Okulogbo said that the Kogi lawmaker was angry because of her removal as the chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content.

“All that Senator Natasha said are all tissues of lies. She is just angry because she was removed as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content.

“The Senate President will respond. We will make an official statement soon,’’ Okulogbo said.