A coalition of women’s groups is preparing to stage a mass protest in Abuja, demanding the resignation of Senate President Godswill Akpabio over allegations of harassment made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central).
The Coalition of Female Civil Society Organisations of Nigeria (FCSOs) has issued a one-week ultimatum, starting March 4, 2025, for Akpabio to step aside. The group insists his resignation is necessary for an impartial investigation and has threatened to occupy the National Assembly if he fails to comply.
FIDA Nigeria, the International Federation of Women Lawyers, has also called for an independent and transparent inquiry into the claims, warning that failure to address such issues undermines gender equality and public trust in leadership. The group also criticized systemic barriers that limit women’s participation in politics.
Despite mounting pressure, the Senate has ruled out any investigation, stating that no official petition has been submitted. Senate spokesperson Yemi Adaramodu emphasized that the only issue under review is an alleged breach of Senate rules by Akpoti-Uduaghan herself.
Meanwhile, reactions to the controversy remain divided. Bayelsa monarch, King Bubaraye Dakolo Agada IV, rejected calls for Akpabio’s resignation, arguing that the Senate President deserves a fair hearing. He expressed confidence in Akpabio’s integrity and called for an inquiry to verify the claims.
Similarly, Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, cautioned against forcing Akpabio out over “unproven” allegations. The group emphasized the need for a thorough review and urged that due process be followed, noting that the claims emerged after a disciplinary action against Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The FCSOs also pointed to past allegations against Akpabio, including claims by former NDDC acting Managing Director Joy Nunieh and his alleged treatment of female colleagues like Senator Ireti Kingibe. The coalition argues that Akpabio’s continued leadership could compromise any investigation, insisting that he should follow the precedent of stepping aside until the matter is resolved.
Akpoti-Uduaghan has accused the Senate President of making persistent advances toward her and claims she faced hostility after rejecting him. Akpabio has yet to issue a detailed public response, but his allies continue to defend his tenure.
As the controversy unfolds, the political landscape remains tense, with calls for justice, fair hearing, and gender equality shaping the discourse.
