By CHIDI MATTHEW NWACHUKWU

Former Nigerian vice president, Atiku Abubakar, has called for an independent investigation into the allegation of sexual harassment levelled against Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District in the Senate.

The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the 2023 election, made the call on his X (formerly Twitter) handle this evening.

Atiku expressed his concern, like millions of other Nigerians, that the third-most-powerful personality in the country was embroiled in an allegation such as sexual harassment, and called on President Bola Tinubu to initiate an independent investigation into the allegations, and ensure that the matter is not swept under the carpet.

?Like millions of Nigerians, I watched with deep concern this morning as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan raised serious allegations of sexual harassment, intimidation, and mistreatment against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

?These allegations are grave and deserve 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, both for their office and for the Nigerian citizens they serve,? stated Atiku.

Atiku further stated that the Senate President, by virtue of his exalted office, must be seen to be impeccable and exude the highest levels of principle and character, not enmeshed in acts capable of denting his image and the office he occupies.

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

He further stated that the few women in the Senate ought to be given more opportunities to air their views and make themselves more visible, rather been vilified and intimidated.

?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,? Atiku averred.

Atiku further noted that sexual harassment is a serious menace that has continued to limit women?s performance in their places of work and in their other endeavours, and maintained that such vices should not be ignored, in spite of who is involved.

?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,? he stated.

He added that the way and manner such issues are handled would send out a strong message to the world about Nigeria?s resolve to deal decisively with such issues.

?The handling of this matter will send a strong message about Nigeria?s commitment to justice, accountability, and the inclusion of women in governance,? said Atiku.

And finally, he called on the President and the Senate to ensure that the allegations are properly investigated, to make for a good visage for the government.

?I urge the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Senate itself to take these allegations seriously by ensuring a credible, transparent, and independent investigation,? said Atiku.