NATASHA: Senate explains why it can’t probe allegations of sexual harassment against Akpabio

The Senate has explained why it is yet to commence an investigation into allegations of sexual harassment leveled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by the senator representing Kogi Central, Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, saying there is no formal petition before it.

The Chairman, Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, Sen. Yemi Adaramodu, who disclosed this while speaking on Arise Television on Monday night, said without a formal petition, there is no way the Senate can begin the process of probing Akpabio.

According to Adaramodu, the Senate can only commence a probe of the Senate President if Akpoti-Uduaghan submits a formal petition before the Senate Committee on Ethics Privileges, and Public Petitions for investigation, as the Senate does not conduct its internal affairs based on what is trending on social media.

“The Senate does not conduct its affairs based on what is trending on social media. There must be a formal petition or a matter raised before the Senate before any investigation can take place,” Adaramodu said.

“There is presently no formal matter before the Senate regarding these allegations. The only issue before the Senate is Senator Natasha’s non-compliance with the standing orders.”

Speaking on the controversy surrounding the initial clash between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan, the Committee Chairman pointed out that the Kogi lawmaker breached the senate rules which mandates that the Senate President assigns seats to senators, adding that all lawmakers are expected to speak from their designated seats, and any breach of this rule undermines order in the chamber.

He also dismissed allegations that the Senate President has a penchant for intimidating his colleagues by denying them recognition, stressing that all senators are equal in the chambers.

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