What does it say about Nigeria’s political system when the Senate President, accused of sexual harassment, remains in office without Probe?
The recent allegations by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Godswill Akpabio have cast a harsh spotlight on the nation’s highest legislative body, sparking intense debate about gender discrimination, ethical conduct, and the fragile state of accountability in Nigerian politics.
In any society that upholds integrity and justice, Akpabio would have stepped aside by now—if only to allow an impartial investigation to unfold without his influence. Yet, Nigeria’s political landscape, long tainted by impunity and entrenched power dynamics, suggests this may become just another unresolved stain on our democratic record.
History offers a sobering contrast. Around the world, political institutions have shown that meaningful accountability is possible. In 2018, Italian lawmaker Luca De Carlo faced multiple sexual harassment allegations, triggering a formal ethics inquiry that ultimately forced his resignation. That same year, South Korean National Assembly member Kim Young-hwan stepped down following substantiated claims of sexual misconduct. And in 2019, Kenya’s then-Labour Minister Simon Chelugui resigned amid a high-profile sexual harassment scandal—proof that even senior officials are not beyond reproach when institutions choose principle over politics.
These cases share a critical lesson: confronting misconduct is difficult, but not impossible. When institutions prioritize transparency and show the courage to act, they not only vindicate victims but also restore public trust.
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Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s bold decision to speak out—despite the risks to her political career—is a powerful stand for justice and gender inclusivity. Representing Kogi Central, she has not launched a personal attack against Akpabio but has demanded what any democratic institution should guarantee: an independent and thorough investigation into her claims of sexual harassment, abuse of power, and obstruction of her legislative work.
Her petition, formally submitted to the Senate on March 5, 2025, is more than a personal grievance. It is a call to action—a test of whether Nigeria’s Senate will uphold the ethical standards it claims to embody.
Yet, the initial response has been disappointingly predictable. Objections from Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Tahir Monguno and Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele have stalled any immediate inquiry. This reluctance not only undermines Akpoti-Uduaghan’s plea for justice but also reinforces the perception that the Senate prioritizes political convenience over moral responsibility.
The reality is stark: in a system where accountability reigns, Akpabio would have resigned—at least temporarily—to allow due process to take its course. His continued grip on power, bolstered by political allies, speaks to a broader, more insidious culture of impunity that has plagued Nigeria’s governance for far too long.
But the Senate still has a choice. This moment—however scandalous—can be a defining one. By following the examples set by Italy, South Korea, and Kenya, Nigeria’s lawmakers can prove that no one is above the principles of justice. They can turn this crisis into an opportunity to rebuild public confidence and push for a more inclusive, accountable system.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has struck the match. Now, the Senate must decide whether to extinguish the flame or fan it into the fire of reform.
True accountability is not just a possibility—it is a necessity.
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