By Kehinde Olatunji
Proposes reconciliation approach to resolve dispute 

Former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Dr Olisa Agbakoba (SAN) has said the sexual harassment allegation against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by the suspended Senator representing Kogi Central in the National Assembly, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has significant contradictions, while proposing a reconciliatory approach to the issue.

Agbakoba, who is representing Akpabio as solicitor in the matter, expressed concern that the issue, a national embarrassment, was distracting the Senate from governance. 

He maintained that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations failed international threshold, adding that she needs to provide more facts to make her case credible and more compelling. 

Agbakoba spoke yesterday at a briefing where he intimated journalists on his resolve to send a letter titled: “Re: Your allegation of sexual harassment against Senator Godswill Akpabio”, to Akpoti-Uduaghan. 

The senior lawyer said: “This widespread coverage has damaged our client’s reputation locally and internationally. We are happy to allow you a reasonable time to clarify the contradictions that we have referred, while our client reserves the right to all legal options.”