The Nigerian Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges has officially closed the sexual harassment petition filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The petitioner, who was suspended for six months over alleged misconduct, had accused the Senate President of sexual harassment and indecent conduct.
During the hearing, Dr. Abiola Akinyode, counsel to Senator Natasha, demanded that the committee chairman, Senator Neda Imasuen, recuse himself, citing an earlier statement where he described the case as “dead on arrival.”
However, Senator Imasuen defended his position, clarifying that an earlier petition submitted by Senator Natasha was invalid as it lacked an address and was personally signed by her, which is against Senate rules.
Furthermore, the committee cited Senate Order 47, which bars the Senate from deliberating on any matter already before a court of law. Since the case is now pending in court, the committee ruled that the Senate will no longer entertain it.
