Senate President Godswill Akpabio is reportedly considering stepping down temporarily amid growing backlash over allegations of sexual harassment.
According to sources, this move is part of a larger Senate strategy to clear him of the accusations while paving the way for the indefinite suspension of his accuser, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, led by Senator Neda Imasuen, is set to investigate the case. Insiders claim the plan involves Akpabio briefly stepping aside, after which the committee will declare him innocent and subsequently recommend Senator Natasha’s suspension for the remainder of her tenure.
Senator Ireti Kingibe and Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi have made public statements supporting the investigation, adding weight to speculations of a coordinated effort to sideline Senator Natasha.
Nwebonyi confirmed on Channels TV that both Akpabio and Natasha will appear before the Senate panel, along with other witnesses.
This development follows Senator Natasha’s petition to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and her recent legal action against the Senate President. Despite a court order restraining disciplinary proceedings against her, the Senate went ahead with her six-month suspension, sealing her office and demanding she return all official property. In response, she has filed a contempt application against Akpabio and other Senate officials.
The unfolding drama highlights deepening political tensions within the Senate, with critics questioning the impartiality of the investigative process.
