Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has called on President Bola Tinubu and the Senate to thoroughly investigate the allegations of sexual harassment, intimidation, and mistreatment leveled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central).
In a statement on Friday, Atiku described the allegations as serious and emphasized the need for a fair 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 for the offices they hold and for the citizens they serve,” he said.
He stressed that the Senate President, as the third most powerful figure in the country, should exemplify unimpeachable character.
He further noted that sexual harassment in the workplace remains a significant obstacle to women’s progress and, by extension, national development.
“At a time when only four women serve in the Senate, it is imperative to foster an environment where female legislators can work without fear of harassment or intimidation,” Atiku stated.
The former Vice President urged President Tinubu and the Senate leadership to conduct an independent and credible investigation, arguing that the outcome of this case would reflect Nigeria’s stance on justice, accountability, and gender inclusion in governance.
“This moment demands careful and principled action to uphold the integrity of our institutions and ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of gender, is treated with dignity and respect,” he added.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan had earlier alleged that she experienced harassment and intimidation in the Senate after rejecting Senate President Akpabio’s advances.
The claims have sparked widespread reactions, with increasing calls for a formal inquiry into the matter.
