The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has called for an independent investigation into the sexual harassment allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Professor Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the ACF expressed deep concern over the controversy, urging the Senate to ensure a fair hearing for Akpoti-Uduaghan and uphold ethical standards.

?The National Assembly must always display exemplary behaviour, personal discipline, and integrity, qualities that seem to be in deficit in the way the 10th Senate is being run,? the forum stated.

The ACF also warned that the allegations, if not properly addressed, could tarnish the public image of the Senate, both nationally and internationally.

?Inevitably, many persons and groups have weighed in on the matter. Even Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan?s husband has been forced to publicly comment, and such interventions risk bringing the Senate into disrepute,? the statement read.

The forum further suggested that the ongoing controversy could be part of a broader pattern of political victimisation, noting that so far, only senators from the North have faced heavy sanctions, including suspensions, in the 10th Senate.

?ACF wonders if the unfolding events constitute a pattern or are cruel coincidences at work. The public image of the 10th Senate?s leadership is now less than inspiring,? the group stated, calling on the Northern caucus in the Senate to rally behind Akpoti-Uduaghan.

While also calling for a transparent and independent probe, the ACF stressed that resolving the issue was crucial for the Senate to refocus on its core legislative responsibilities, particularly at a time when Nigerians are grappling with economic hardships.

Senate denies impeachment moves

The ACF?s call for an investigation comes amid reports of an alleged move to impeach Akpabio over the allegations. However, the Senate has dismissed such claims, insisting that there is no basis for removing its leadership.

Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, Senator Yemi Adaramodu (APC, Ekiti South), told Daily Trust that the speculation was unfounded.

There is no move to change the Senate leadership. It has never been contemplated, and there is no reason for such,? Adaramodu said. ?The recent breach of the Senate Rules has been referred to the appropriate Senate Committee, and there is no other matter before the said Committee.?

He added that the National Assembly operates independently and will not be influenced by external pressures in handling internal matters.

Akpoti-Uduaghan had, in an interview with Arise Television on Friday, alleged that Akpabio made inappropriate advances towards her during a visit to his residence in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on December 8, 2023.

She claimed the Senate President held her hand, led her around his house, and made sexual advances while her husband trailed behind them. She further alleged that Akpabio, a former governor of Akwa Ibom State, had on a separate occasion asked her to ?make him happy? if she wanted her motions to receive favourable consideration on the Senate floor.

The allegations emerged just days after the Senate unanimously voted to refer Akpoti-Uduaghan to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions for disciplinary review, following her dispute with Akpabio over seating arrangements during plenary.

However, Akpabio has strongly denied the allegations through his media consultant, Kenny Okulogbo. His wife, Ekaette Akpabio, also defended him, describing the claims as baseless.

Meanwhile, civil society organisations (CSOs) and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have joined the ACF in calling for a thorough investigation into the allegations. Some have also demanded that Akpabio step down to allow for an impartial probe (Daily Trust)

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