UN Conference: Reps Committee Chair Calls for Probe into Senator Natasha’s Sexual Harassment Allegations
The Chairperson of the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, Honorable Kafilat Ogbara, has urged for a thorough investigation into the allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Speaking at the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Conference in New York, Ogbara emphasized the importance of a fair and transparent investigation. “Such allegations demand a thorough, impartial and transparent investigation.
At the same time, we must ensure that fairness is upheld for all individuals involved and justice is never pre-determined or one-sided,” she stated.
The controversy surrounds a petition submitted by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to the Senate, accusing Akpabio of sexual harassment. However, the petition was dismissed, and she was subsequently suspended for six months. This decision has sparked national and international debates, with many viewing it as politically motivated.
Response from the Nigerian Senate On Senator Natasha’s Case
In response to Ogbara’s comments, the Nigerian Senate issued a letter, read by Ogbara, refuting the allegations. The letter, signed by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, stated that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for “gross misconduct and unruly behavior” and not due to the allegations of sexual harassment.
The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) has acknowledged Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s complaint and assured that it would examine the matter after hearing from all parties involved.
