Senate Dismisses Natasha Akpoti’s Petition Against Akpabio, Declares It Dead on Arrival

The Nigerian Senate has dismissed a petition filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, declaring it “dead on arrival.” The petition, submitted during plenary on March 5, 2025, accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, abuse of office, and malicious obstruction of legislative functions.

Following its submission, the petition was referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions for review. However, the committee ruled against it, citing procedural violations. According to Senate rules, a petition must be signed by someone other than the senator presenting it—a requirement the committee stated was not met. Additionally, it noted that the matters raised in the petition were already before the court, making them sub judice and beyond the Senate’s jurisdiction.

Reacting to the petition, Senate President Akpabio denied all allegations, stating, “At no time did I ever attempt any sexual harassment on the said Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan or any other woman for that matter.” He dismissed the claims as politically motivated and aimed at tarnishing his reputation.

The dismissal has sparked mixed reactions within and outside the Senate. Some lawmakers and political analysts argue that the allegations should have been thoroughly investigated, while others emphasize the importance of following Senate procedures.

While the Senate has struck out the petition, the legal battle is far from over. Since the allegations are already in court, further developments could emerge from the judiciary. Some civil society organizations have criticized the Senate’s decision, arguing that dismissing the petition on technical grounds does not address the core issues raised.

For now, the Senate considers the matter closed. However, with public scrutiny growing and court proceedings still in play, the controversy surrounding Akpoti’s petition remains far from over.