…Passes Vote of No Confidence on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

ABUJA – The Ebira Youth Leaders Forum has called for a fair and impartial investigation into the allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

The group also passed a vote of no confidence on the senator, accusing her of misrepresenting the people of Kogi Central and engaging in political theatrics.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday, the president of the forum, Engr. Otomio Abdullahi, urged the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions to conduct its inquiry without undue influence or external pressure. The committee is set to investigate the matter on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.

Abdullahi warned against using the Senate chamber as a platform for political blackmail, stating that the legislature should remain a place of integrity and constructive engagement.

“This press conference is necessary to address recent political developments that could damage Nigeria’s democratic institutions and the reputation of the peace-loving Ebira people. The Senate President holds a highly respected office, and attempts to tarnish his image for personal or political gain should not be condoned,” he said.

The youth leader questioned the credibility of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims that she was sexually harassed by Akpabio at his residence in Akwa Ibom. He noted inconsistencies in her account, particularly her claim that the alleged incident occurred in the presence of her husband.

“How can such an incident happen in the full glare of her husband, who is a sighted man? To make the situation more complex, the wife of the Senate President, Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, has stated that she was at home that day and also clarified that they do not own any residence in Ikot-Ekpene, as claimed by Senator Natasha,” Abdullahi noted.

The forum also questioned why Akpoti-Uduaghan was the only female senator making such claims against Akpabio, despite his long history of working with women in various capacities as a former governor, minister, and now Senate President.

The group accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of using the Senate chamber to seek media attention rather than focusing on legislative duties. They pointed to her recent actions on the Senate floor, where she clashed with leadership over seat assignments, as evidence of political grandstanding.

“Why is she so fixated on sitting close to the principal officers? Is she in the Senate to make laws or to create content for public attention? Even her female colleagues, including Senator Ireti Kingibe, have dismissed her claims of marginalization,” Abdullahi added.

The forum declared a vote of no confidence in Akpoti-Uduaghan, citing her alleged history of making similar allegations against political figures, including former presidential aide Reno Omokri and ex-Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello.

The group made the following demands: A Fair Investigation: The Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions must conduct its probe without bias.

Disciplinary Measures: If found guilty of misconduct, Akpoti-Uduaghan should face appropriate sanctions, including suspension.

Potential Recall: The group warned that if she continues to misrepresent Kogi Central, they would initiate a recall process.

As the Senate inquiry approaches, all eyes will be on the proceedings and the committee’s findings regarding the allegations.