Nigeria’s Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has strongly denied allegations of sexual harassment leveled against him by a fellow senator, describing the claims as baseless and inconsistent with his upbringing. The controversy, which has sparked nationwide debate, centers on accusations by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who alleged that Akpabio made inappropriate advances toward her during a private visit to his residence in December 2023.

During a Senate session on Wednesday, Akpabio addressed the allegations publicly for the first time, stating, “At no time did I ever harass any woman. I was raised very well by my late single mother, and I have always upheld respect for women.” He further highlighted his track record as a gender-friendly leader, referencing an award he received as the “most gender-friendly governor” during his tenure as governor of Akwa Ibom State.

The allegations emerged after Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan shared her account in an interview with Arise Television on Friday. She claimed that during a visit to Akpabio’s home in southern Akwa Ibom State on December 8, 2023, the Senate President took her by the hand, led her around his house, and made sexual advances while her husband trailed behind them, distracted by a phone call. She also alleged that Akpabio insinuated she should “take care of him” to secure favorable consideration for her legislative motions in the Senate. Drawing a sharp comparison, she likened his behavior to that of a “university lecturer who consistently fails a student refusing to sleep with him.”

Akpabio dismissed the claims as politically motivated fabrications, urging the public to disregard them. However, the allegations have intensified scrutiny of his conduct, with many Nigerians calling for an independent investigation. Public reactions have been polarized, with protests erupting outside the National Assembly in Abuja. Two opposing groups gathered on Wednesday—one demanding Akpabio’s resignation under chants of “Akpabio must go,” while the other voiced support for the Senate President, praising his leadership.

The controversy took a formal turn during Wednesday’s plenary session when Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan submitted a petition calling for an investigation into Akpabio’s behavior. In a procedural move, Akpabio, presiding over the session, permitted the petition to be presented and directed its referral to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Code of Conduct, and Public Petitions. The committee is expected to review the allegations and determine whether further action, such as a public hearing or disciplinary measures, is warranted.

Akpabio’s political rivals have seized on the scandal, with former Senate President Bukola Saraki describing the allegations as “too serious to be brushed aside.” In a social media post, Saraki emphasized the need for transparency, writing, “When leaders are accused of misconduct, the integrity of our institutions depends on thorough, impartial investigations.” Civil society groups and gender rights advocates have echoed similar sentiments, urging the Senate to prioritize accountability.

The allegations against Akpabio come less than two years into his tenure as Senate President, a role he assumed after a long political career. A former governor of Akwa Ibom State from 2007 to 2015, Akpabio oversaw the oil-rich region during a period of infrastructure development but also faced criticism for alleged financial mismanagement. He later served as Minister of Niger Delta Affairs under former President Muhammadu Buhari before clinching the Senate presidency in 2023. His rise has been marked by both admiration for his charisma and accusations of autocratic leadership.

For Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, the decision to publicly accuse one of Nigeria’s most powerful politicians carries significant risk. A member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), she has built a reputation as an outspoken advocate for social justice and anti-corruption reforms. In her television interview, she framed her allegations as part of a broader struggle against systemic sexism in Nigerian politics. “Women in leadership face unique challenges,” she said. “When we speak out, we are labeled troublemakers. But silence is no longer an option.”

The Senate’s handling of the petition will test its commitment to addressing gender-based misconduct within its ranks. Nigeria’s National Assembly has historically faced criticism for sidelining sexual harassment complaints, often dismissing them as “personal matters.” In 2020, a university lecturer’s rape allegations against a senator were quietly dropped after minimal media attention. Activists fear a repeat of such outcomes, particularly given Akpabio’s influence over Senate proceedings.

Meanwhile, Akpabio’s supporters have rallied behind him, framing the controversy as a smear campaign. A coalition of pro-government groups issued a statement accusing Akpoti-Uduaghan of “weaponizing falsehoods to destabilize the Senate.” Others have pointed to her opposition party affiliation as evidence of political motives. “This is not about justice—it’s about weakening the ruling party ahead of the next election cycle,” said a spokesperson for the All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Wing.

As the Ethics Committee begins its review, legal experts stress the importance of due process. “Both parties deserve a fair hearing,” said human rights lawyer Aisha Yusuf. “If the committee fails to act impartially, it will erode public trust not just in the Senate, but in Nigeria’s entire democratic system.” For now, the allegations remain unresolved, leaving citizens divided over whom to believe.

The scandal has also reignited conversations about workplace culture in Nigerian politics, where women hold just 7% of Senate seats. Advocacy groups like Women in Politics Forum argue that the lack of gender parity fosters environments where harassment thrives. “When women are underrepresented, their voices are easily drowned out,” said the group’s director, Ebere Ifendu. “This case underscores why we need more women in leadership—to challenge the status quo and protect others from abuse.”

For Akpabio, the allegations threaten to overshadow his legislative agenda, which includes economic reforms and security initiatives. Critics argue that the controversy distracts from pressing national issues, including rising inflation and widespread insecurity. “The Senate should be focused on solving Nigeria’s problems, not managing scandals,” said political analyst Tunde Bakare. “But accountability cannot be sacrificed for the sake of convenience.”

As pressure mounts, all eyes remain on the Ethics Committee. Its findings—or lack thereof—will either bolster Akpabio’s denial or validate calls for his resignation. For Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, the outcome will determine whether her decision to speak out becomes a catalyst for change or a cautionary tale. In a nation where power often shields the accused, this case may prove pivotal in Nigeria’s slow march toward gender equality and institutional accountability.

For now, Nigerians await answers, hoping the truth—whatever it may be—will prevail.