Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has publicly accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment during a live television broadcast. Their conflict has gained attention since last week when she declined to accept a new seat that Akpabio assigned to her.
During an appearance on Arise TV on February 28, 2025, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan shared her experiences of alleged sexual harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She claimed that her challenges in the Senate began after she refused his advances.
Natasha recounted a visit to Akpabio’s house in Uyo in December 2023, where he suggested they “spend quality time” together. She expressed discomfort with this implication and distanced herself from him.
Additionally, she described her frustration over Akpabio’s repeated refusal to allow her motion regarding the Ajaokuta steel company to be debated in the Senate. Despite listing the motion multiple times, it was consistently sidelined, with Akpabio suggesting its rejection was due to the “mood of the Senate.” When she confronted him about the importance of the motion, he allegedly hinted that she could receive favorable treatment if she were to engage with him. Natasha firmly stated that she ignored his comments.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan compared her experience to the scenario where female students are unjustly failed by lecturers for refusing to engage in sexual relations.