Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, has urged President Bola Tinubu and the Senate to take seriously the allegations of sexual harassment, intimidation, and mistreatment made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
In a statement issued on Friday, Atiku expressed deep concern over the allegations, emphasizing that such serious claims should not be dismissed without a thorough, impartial, and transparent 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 for the offices they hold and for the citizens they serve,” Atiku said.
He further stated that as the third most powerful figure in the country, the Senate President should exemplify unimpeachable character. Atiku highlighted that sexual harassment in the workplace poses a significant barrier to women’s advancement and, by extension, national progress.
“At a time when only four women serve in the Senate, it is imperative to foster an environment where female legislators can work without fear of harassment or intimidation,” he added.
Atiku called on President Tinubu and the Senate leadership to ensure that a credible and independent investigation takes place, stressing that the outcome would send a strong message about Nigeria’s commitment to justice, accountability, and gender inclusion in governance.
“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 concluded.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan had previously alleged that she was subjected to harassment and intimidation in the Senate after rejecting Senate President Akpabio’s advances. The allegations have sparked widespread reactions and calls for a formal investigation.
