In recent events, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of segxwal harassment, alleging that his advances began on December 8, 2023, during a visit to Akwa Ibom State.
In response, women from Akwa Ibom and the Niger Delta region organized protests in Uyo, expressing their discontent with Akpoti-Uduaghan’s allegations. They viewed these claims as unfounded and politically motivated attempts to tarnish Akpabio’s reputation. The protesters carried placards with messages such as “Number 3 man deserves respect, Natasha show some” and “Respect the office of the Senate President.”
One protester, Grace Mathias from Essien Udim Local Government Area, emphasized the community’s respect for their leaders and warned against actions that could harm Akpabio’s image. She stated that if such allegations persisted, they would seek divine intervention against Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Conversely, some women’s groups from the South-South region have praised Akpoti-Uduaghan for her courage in speaking out, labeling her a hero and source of inspiration.
They urged the Senate’s leadership and the Ethics Committee to handle the matter with fairness and avoid actions that could lead to discrimination or victimization based on gender.
