06/03/2025
Natasha Allegation: Northern Elders Forum Call On Akpabio To Resign
Mar 6 2025
The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has called on the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, to step aside to ensure a fair and unbiased investigation in the sexual harassment allegation levelled against him by a female Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District.
A statement on Wednesday issued by
Professor Abubakar Jika Jiddere,
Spokesperson, Northern Elders Forum, called for an immediate, independent investigation into the allegation to uphold the sanctity of the Nigerian Senate.
Jiddere, said, as the highest law-making institution in Nigeria, the Senate must uphold the values of fairness, justice, and respect, adding that “Any deviation from these principles risks damaging Nigeria’s reputation in the international community.”
According to the statement which reads in part, “The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) is closely monitoring the unfolding conflict in the Senate between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Distinguished Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District.
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“It is deeply concerning that, at a time when there is a global push for gender sensitivity, inclusiveness, and respect for fundamental human rights, especially the dignity of women in high-level public service, a female senator is being subjected to public intimidation and mistreatment.
“The treatment of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Senate President is completely unacceptable.
“The NEF expresses its disappointment and strongly condemns the Senate President’s abuse of his privileged position to embarrass a fellow senator within the Senate Chamber.
“Such conduct undermines the integrity of the Senate and sets a dangerous precedent.”
