The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has submitted a petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, alleging sexual harassment.
She presented the petition on the floor of the Senate on Tuesday, following comments she had made on Arise TV regarding the allegations.
Akpabio permitted Natasha to proceed with the submission, directing that the petition be referred to the committee on code of conduct, ethics, and public petitions.
“Distinguished colleagues, this petition is hereby referred to the committee on code of conduct, ethics and public petitions, which should revert to the senate as soon as practicable,” he said.
However, Senate Chief Whip Mohammed Tahir Monguno objected, arguing that the matter was already in court. Citing Order 40, Rule 7 of the Senate rules, he stated that “senate should not receive or deliberate on any matter to which actions are pending in the court of law.”
Natasha countered Monguno’s argument, insisting that he had misrepresented the situation.
“This matter is not in court. The matter in court is a defamation against the senate president’s special assistant on social media, Patrick Mfon, who accused me of dressing indecently to the senate,” she stated.
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Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele also opposed the submission of the petition, maintaining that it was inadmissible.
“We cannot relax our rules. This petition cannot stand. It is in court. It is defective. There is no way we can accept this petition,” he declared. He then moved for a closed session.
A brief rowdy exchange followed before calm was restored. The Senate proceeded with its regular business, while Natasha staged a walkout in protest.
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