Women’s Group Petitions UN, Demands Evidence From Akpoti-Uduaghan
Senator Ireti Kingibe has distanced herself from the collective Senate defense of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, calling for an open and transparent investigation into the sexual harassment allegations leveled against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
In a statement addressing growing public scrutiny, Kingibe, who represents the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and chairs the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, reaffirmed her commitment to justice and gender equity.
Kingibe: I Stand Against Sexual Harassment
Kingibe’s shift in stance follows backlash on social media after she initially appeared dismissive of the allegations. Clarifying her position, she stated:
“As the Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, in the 10th Senate, and the Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, I would like to state to all Nigerians that I am aware of the public dismay, and I would like to address a few things officially.
First, I would like to assure Nigerians that I will be at the forefront to champion the sexual harassment case involving my colleague, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, when the investigation comes to the red chamber. I am aware of the narrative that has been going around, and to set the record straight, my actions were not to undermine her claims, but to buttress that I was not aware in the first place of any such happenings.
Notwithstanding, I remain steadfast in the fight against all forms of violence against girls and women.”
She further emphasized the need for accountability within the Senate:
“Once an accusation of sexual harassment is formally tabled before the Senate, it would be incumbent on the body to note that this weighty issue must be investigated thoroughly by the appropriate mechanisms within the institution. The office of the Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, which I chair, stands as a pillar of hope and a watershed for equality, equity, inclusivity, and opportunity. It offers Nigerian women recourse, refuge, and the right to dignity and social justice.
It’s in this capacity that I am demanding an open, transparent, and fair investigation into the allegations of sexual harassment. Justice, fairness, and equity must be provided for everyone regardless of gender, position, or social class.”
Push for Gender Equity
Beyond the current controversy, Kingibe reiterated her commitment to advancing gender equity in Nigerian politics. She highlighted her efforts in pushing for the Gender Equity Bill 2025 (SB 743), which has passed the first reading in the Senate.
“I align with the global community in advocating for increased gender equity in political representation and across all sectors of our society. To this end, I am focused on advancing the 35% Gender Inclusion Bill and the establishment of special seats for women to ensure greater participation of women in governance.
I remain resolute in my service to the Nigerian people, undeterred by falsehoods, and committed to fostering a democracy where justice, fairness, and equity prevail.”
Women’s Group Petitions UN, Demands Evidence From Akpoti-Uduaghan
Meanwhile, a women’s advocacy group, Women for Change Vanguard, has petitioned the United Nations (UN), urging the international body to intervene in the case.
Led by Mrs. Irene Imoh, the group staged a peaceful protest at the UN House in Abuja on Friday, expressing concerns over what they described as the potential damage caused by unsubstantiated allegations against public figures.
Addressing journalists, Imoh emphasized the need for concrete evidence to substantiate claims of sexual harassment.
“We gather here today at the esteemed UN House to express our support for the President of the 10th Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio. Over the past few weeks, he has faced significant reputational damage due to unsubstantiated allegations of sexual harassment made by his colleague, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.”
The group insisted that while accountability is crucial, baseless allegations could undermine genuine efforts to combat sexual harassment.
“It is important to remember that in any allegation of misconduct, the burden of proof lies with the accuser. If Senator Natasha claims to have been a victim of sexual harassment, we urge her to come forth with credible evidence to support her accusations. The gravity of such claims demands accountability,” Imoh stated.
What’s Next?
With public interest growing and stakeholders weighing in on the case, the Senate faces mounting pressure to conduct an independent and transparent investigation. While Kingibe has pledged to support an inquiry, Women for Change Vanguard has urged Akpoti-Uduaghan to provide evidence to substantiate her allegations. As the controversy unfolds, all eyes remain on the Senate to see how it will handle the allegations against its President and whether justice—whichever direction it leads—will be served.